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.
Age >/= 18 At least one peripheral lung lesion >8mm documented on CT scan referred for diagnostic bronchoscopy Subject is able to undergo informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
Coagulopathy (platelet count < 50,000, INR > 1.5) detected on blood testing done within 6 weeks of the procedural visit Lesion associated with a prominent vessel evident on CT scan Pure ground glass lesion Fibrotic interstitial lung abnormalities on chest CT Bullous emphysema in region of nodule Supplemental oxygen utilization at baseline BMI > 40 End stage renal disease
