Thoracoscopic ultrasonic localisation of lung nodules: initial results of an in-vitro and in-vivo study.

The main problem in thoracoscopic resection of lung nodules is the difficulty in localising the target. In the following we describe the use of an ultrasonographic, deflectable linear array probe of 7.5 MHz which was first tested during an in-vitro study. This study has provided useful information with respect to the US inspection of normal parenchyma and lung nodules. Initial results in clinical use in 14 patients demonstrate some limitations linked to the difficulty in manoeuvering the probe and to the remaining air in the parenchyma. However, endoscopic US is an interesting additional tool during thoracoscopic exploration of the lung.