Cryobiopsy Versus Forceps Biopsy for Pulmonary Lesions

An Un-blinded, Intra-patient Comparison of Transbronchial Forceps Biopsy and Cryobiopsy for Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions

Purpose: Patients with peripheral lung nodules require evaluation for lung cancer. Our aim is to assess the diagnostic yield of a new technique, transbronchial cryobiopsies, in patients at risk for lung cancer. Target population: Patients referred for bronchoscopy and lung biopsies as a part of their work up for peripheral lung lesions. Procedures: Patients enrolled will have forceps transbronchial biopsies followed by transbronchial cryobiopsies for their lung lesion during bronchoscopy.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age >/= 18
2. At least one peripheral lung lesion >8mm documented on CT scan referred for diagnostic bronchoscopy
3. Subject is able to undergo informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Coagulopathy (platelet count < 50,000, INR > 1.5) detected on blood testing done within 6 weeks of the procedural visit
2. Lesion associated with a prominent vessel evident on CT scan
3. Pure ground glass lesion
4. Fibrotic interstitial lung abnormalities on chest CT
5. Bullous emphysema in region of nodule
6. Supplemental oxygen utilization at baseline
7. BMI > 40
8. End stage renal disease