Intraoperative Ultrasonographic Localization of Pulmonary Nodules in VATS

Intraoperative Ultrasonographic Localization of Pulmonary Nodules in Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery

This study is conducted to explore the feasibility and value of Intraoperative ultrasonographic localization of pulmonary nodules in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

The study is designed as a single center prospective trial. The participating center is Department of Ultrasound, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China. The study is expected to enroll 200 patients. The feasibility and value of Intraoperative ultrasonographic localization of pulmonary nodules in VATS will be explored. The accuracy rate of localization will be evaluated using gray scale mode and elastography mode. Intraoperative ultrasonographic localization will be performed using an ultrasound system (HI VISON Ascendus), which is equipped with a 5-10MHz mechanical probe (EUP-OL531).

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients who are older than 18 year-old.
2. Chest CT shows pulmonary nodule suspected to be malignant that need to undergo VATS.
3. Patients who have good compliance and sign informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patient with severe asthma and pulmonary fibrosis.
2. Refusal of participation.
3. Severe cardiopulmonary dysfunction and other indications that can't receive VATS.