Extract Subpleural lung nodules and masses are common and often vexing findings in respiratory practice. Once malignancy is suspected, clinicians must choose between several biopsy routes (percutaneous, bronchoscopic or surgical), each with its own balance of diagnostic yield, complication risk and logistics.
Conventional bronchoscopy offers limited diagnostic reach for subpleural or peripheral nodules unless an airway leads directly to the lesion. Its sensitivity falls sharply in nodules lacking a bronchus sign or located more than 2 cm from the hilum, and major societies advise against its routine use in this context because of high non-diagnostic rates [1].
European Respiratory Journal published a clinical update in Critical Care on 12 Mar 2026.
The item focuses on Mapping stiffness, targeting success: shear-wave elastography in lung biopsy.
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