The ultrasound- or CT-guided PTNB and transbronchial biopsy (TBB) were performed at Beijing Chaoyang Hospital by specialised pulmonologists and radiologists, respectively, using standard methods. For peripheral nodules, ultrasound- or CT-guided PTNB was used. CT was performed using a high-resolution 16-slice CT scanner (BrightSpeed Series CT systems; GE Healthcare, Milwaukee, WI, USA). PTNB was usually performed using the Supercore biopsy instrument 18 G 15 cm with optional co-axial needle MCXS1815LX (Argon Medical, Texas, TX, USA) or the Supercore biopsy instrument 18 G 9 cm with optional co-axial needle MCXS1809LX (Argon Medical).
A BF-260 video bronchoscopy (Olympus, Tokyo, Japan) was performed for intratracheal involvement or central-type nodules. Tumour samples were collected using conventional disposable biopsy forceps. Bbronchial ultrasound-guided biopsy can be used in patients whose lesions are not visible under bronchoscopy.
A BF-260 video bronchoscopy (Olympus, Tokyo, Japan) was performed for intratracheal involvement or central-type nodules. Tumour samples were collected using conventional disposable biopsy forceps. Bbronchial ultrasound-guided biopsy can be used in patients whose lesions are not visible under bronchoscopy.