Interventional Pulmonology: Procedures, Uses, and Effects
Interventional pulmonology procedures offer the potential advantage of avoiding more invasive surgery. For example, before interventional pulmonology, biopsy of lymph nodes in the chest required chest wall surgery.
Two recent advances in technology are extending the reach of interventional pulmonology procedures:
Although interventional pulmonology procedures carry low risks, they are not risk-free. Uncommon complications of interventional pulmonology procedures include:
Interventional pulmonology procedures are generally safer and have a shorter recovery time, compared to surgery. However, surgery remains the best option for diagnosis and treatment of many lung conditions.
Interventional Pulmonology
In this article
- Interventional Pulmonology Procedures
- Interventional Pulmonary Diagnostics
- Interventional Pulmonology Risks and Limitations
Interventional Pulmonary Diagnostics
Interventional pulmonology procedures offer the potential advantage of avoiding more invasive surgery. For example, before interventional pulmonology, biopsy of lymph nodes in the chest required chest wall surgery.
Two recent advances in technology are extending the reach of interventional pulmonology procedures:
- Endobronchial ultrasound system (EBUS): An ultrasound probe on the tip of a bronchoscope allows a doctor to biopsy lymph nodes with more precision. In experienced hands, EBUS increases the likelihood of a correct diagnosis significantly.
- Electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (superDimension): An advanced system that guides the bronchoscope farther than traditional bronchoscopy allows. This system permits biopsy of hard-to-reach abnormal areas of the lung, which would otherwise require more invasive testing.
Interventional Pulmonology Risks and Limitations
Although interventional pulmonology procedures carry low risks, they are not risk-free. Uncommon complications of interventional pulmonology procedures include:
- Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
- Bleeding
- Oversedation, leading to pneumonia or the need for temporary life support
Interventional pulmonology procedures are generally safer and have a shorter recovery time, compared to surgery. However, surgery remains the best option for diagnosis and treatment of many lung conditions.
Source...