Virtual Bronchoscopic Navigation to Increase Diagnostic Yield in Patients With Pulmonary Nodules

Background Transthoracic computed tomography (CT)-guided procedures are the current gold Standard for obtaining diagnostic biopsies of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPN) in the peripheral lung. Novel endobronchial techniques, such as electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) or Virtual bronchoscopic navigation (VBN) are considered safer to approach SPNs. The newest technique combines VBN with calculating the access to a SPN via a transparenchymal route. In contrast to the gold Standard transthoracic approach, also small lesions, and lesions which cannot be reached transthoracicaliy, located in the innertwo thirdsof the lung can be approached. Main research question To assess diagnostic yield of the novel Standard of care 'Virtual bronchoscopy navigation" procedure. Design (including population, confounders/outcomes) A single centre, prospective, observational study of patients undergoing the novel Standard of care Virtual bronchoscopy navigation procedure to assess a pulmonary nodule. Clinical data of at least 100 consecutive patients will be collected.