Abstract

The authors present their data on endobronchial treatment of 374 patients with malignant stenotic tumors of the trachea and bronchi (n = 150; 187 tumors), central lung cancer (CLC) (n = 119; 162 tumors), benign tumors (n = 47), and scarring stenosis (n = 58). A complex of diagnostic studies was developed, which comprised video-assisted high-resolution endoscopy, fluorescence and NBI bronchoscopy, endosonography, spiral computed tomography, and a morphological study. Indications for various endoscopic treatment options were defined. The basic techniques for tumor removal were electrocoagulation, Nd:YAG-laser thermodestruction (1984-1994), photodynamic therapy, and argon-plasma coagulation (1992-2008). In patients with stenotic tumors, complete or partial luminal recovery could be achieved in 96% of cases just after endoscopic treatment. Endoscopic treatment as a preparatory stage was performed in 24 (16%) patients before open surgery and in 81 (54%) patients prior to radiotherapy. In CLC, complete tumor regression was achieved in 89% and in 100% when tumors sized under 1 cm along the plane. A follow-up lasted as long as 8 years. A recurrence was diagnosed in 175 of cases; metachronic CLC was found in 21%. The developed endoscopic treatment options can be occasionally regarded as the only possible treatment modality or as an alternative to surgical treatment.

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