New Lung Imaging Approach Set To Reduce Surgery

A new approach to lung imaging is set to reduce surgery on benign nodules in the lung, according to a presentation at the World Conference on Lung Cancer in Sydney yesterday.

The industry body for medical imaging, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists, is using the International Day of Radiology on November 8, to showcase the new approach to identifying and assessing nodules.

RANZCR Radiologist Dr David Milne of Auckland DHB Radiology and Dr David Midthun of the US Mayo Clinic said that early evidence of pulmonary nodules may be the first and only point in time where there is chance of a cure in patients with lung cancer. However, the vast majority of pulmonary nodules are benign and there are always risks with surgery. This is why being able to accurately classify nodules and be clear about clinical options is so crucial.
The new review paper outlines a process where the size of nodules and evidence of growth are used as key indicators in determining the need for surgery.
The process incorporates images from CT scans and PET scans to inform decisions about the resection or other treatment of lesions and nodules.
The authors say there is evidence that the majority of nodules which are currently excised using surgery are actually benign. Research shows that between 50-86% of nodules that get removed would have caused no problems¹.
“Reductions in surgery for benign nodules can be achieved by simply observing smaller nodules, using the latest scanning techniques to classify nodules and by capturing historical images that help us assess whether or not nodules are getting larger,” said Dr Milne.
“It is all about using the latest imaging technology to maximise the prospect of better patient health outcomes while minimising the risks that come from surgery that is likely to achieve little,” concluded Dr Milne.
The purpose of the International Day of Radiology (IDOR) on Friday 8^th November is to build greater awareness of the value that radiological research, diagnosis and treatment can contribute to safe patient care. It also seeks to build greater appreciation of the vital role radiologists perform in the healthcare continuum.
In 2013 the focus of the day is on Imaging and Lung Disease.