Feasibility of endoscopic transoral surgical lung biopsy in a live canine model.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The feasibility of using a transoral approach to the thoracic cavity has not yet been measured in humans or animals. The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of transoral surgical lung biopsy (TOLB) in 10 canines. METHODS: Through an incision over the vestibulum oris, a homemade metal tube was introduced into the thoracic cavity under endoscopic guidance and used as a working channel of surgical lung biopsy. TOLB was performed on the predetermined lung lobe by using an electrocautery loop and endoscopic grasper. RESULTS: Successful surgical lung biopsy was achieved in 8 of 10 animals in a mean time of 132 minutes (range 130-190 minutes). There were no major intraoperative or postoperative complications, and all animals survived for 2 weeks after surgery. Autopsy showed no evidence of vital structure injury, mediastinitis, or empyema. CONCLUSIONS: TOLB was demonstrated to be safe and feasible in a canine model.