CONE BEAM COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CBCT)

CBCT bronchoscopy is considered a newer and safer method for several reasons:

• Enhanced Visualization : CBCT provides detailed 3D images of lung anatomy and nodules, allowing for precise localization. This is especially valuable for targeting small, peripheral lung nodules that may be difficult to access with traditional methods.
• Real-Time Navigation : The technology allows for real-time visualization during the procedure, enabling bronchoscopists to navigate to the lesion accurately and efficiently. This reduces the chances of missing the target during biopsy.
• Reduced Complications : By improving the accuracy of targeting lung nodules, CBCT bronchoscopy minimizes the risk of complications, such as pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or bleeding, that can occur with less precise techniques.
• Patient Comfort : The procedure can be performed using local anesthesia and conscious sedation, which typically leads to a shorter recovery time and increased patient comfort compared to more invasive techniques.

Cone Beam CT bronchoscopy is helpful in diagnosing various lung conditions, including lung cancer, infections, inflammatory conditions, and other lesions that may not be easily accessed using conventional bronchoscopy. The most anticipated use of Cone beam CT will be biopsy of lung nodules that would be discovered with the lung cancer screening programme.

CBCT bronchoscopy offers superior imaging capabilities compared to traditional bronchoscopy, which relies mainly on two-dimensional fluoroscopic imaging. The 3D imaging from CBCT allows for better assessment of the anatomy surrounding lung nodules, leading to improved biopsy accuracy.

The overall benefit is the combination of enhanced diagnostic accuracy with reduced procedural risks, leading to better patient outcomes and a higher yield of adequately sampled tissue for pathological analysis. This technology is becoming increasingly important in the landscape of minimally invasive lung diagnostics.