Work

Clinical application of the closed inflation method in pulmonary segmentectomy: A retrospective propensity score-matched study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Pulmonary segmentectomy is widely adopted for early-stage lung cancer. However, the conventional inflation-deflation method is often time-consuming. To address the limitation, we propose a novel closed inflation technique involving targeted bronchial occlusion followed by selective inflation. This approach improves operative efficiency and provides a cost-effective, equipment-free alternative for accurate intersegmental plane delineation. METHODS: In this single-center, retrospective study (February 2019-November 2021), 260 patients undergoing pulmonary segmentectomy were assigned to either the inflation-deflation group (n = 86) or the closed inflation group (n = 174). Propensity score matching (PSM) at a 1:1 ratio yielded 53 matched pairs. We systematically recorded and analyzed perioperative metrics, intersegmental plane clarity, and patient survival status. RESULTS: After matching, the closed inflation group demonstrated significantly improved surgical efficiency compared with the inflation-deflation group. The mean surgical duration was 127.4 min (95% CI, 120.6-134.1) versus 144.0 min (95% CI, 133.6-154.4), P = 0.030. Although no statistically significant differences were observed in other perioperative parameters, the closed inflation group exhibited reduced variability. Clarity of the intersegmental plane was comparable. At long-term follow-up in May 2024, 104 of 106 patients were alive, with survival ranging from 2.5 to 5.2 years. Two deaths occurred from unrelated malignancies, and no recurrence or metastasis was observed. CONCLUSIONS: The closed inflation technique is a cost-effective, equipment-independent method that enhances operative efficiency without compromising perioperative safety. Owing to its simplicity, reproducibility, and minimal resource requirements, it represents a viable alternative for institutions lacking access to advanced imaging technologies or dye-based systems.

Source: Interdisciplinary CardioVascular and Thoracic Surgery

DOI: 10.1093/icvts/ivag052

Authors: Ze-Yu Cheng, Wen-Liang Liu, Yan Hu

Institutions: Central South University, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University

Language: English

Topic: Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,258