Identifying lung disease by using novel imaging techniques
Doctors often need to take samples from the lungs to diagnose conditions like lung cancer. Current tools can struggle to reach very deep areas of the lung. This study is testing two new camera technologies, Eyes on Target (EoT1) and KronoScan (KC.02), that can work together during a standard lung examination (bronchoscopy). These new tools aim to help doctors see deeper inside the lungs and guide them to take more accurate samples from hard-to-reach areas. By doing this, we hope to improve the diagnosis of lung conditions, leading to better and faster treatment plans for patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When doctors suspect a lung problem, like lung cancer, they often need to perform a procedure called a bronchoscopy. This involves gently guiding a thin tube with a camera down into the lungs to look around and sometimes take small samples. However, current bronchoscopes can't reach the very smallest airways in the lungs. This means if a problem is located in one of these deeper areas, it can be really difficult for doctors to see it properly and take a precise sample. Sometimes, they might end up sampling healthy tissue instead of the problem area.
This study is trying out two new technologies to improve this. One is a tiny camera called Eyes on Target (EoT), which is small enough to go into the deeper parts of the lung. The other is a system called KronoScan, which helps display the images from the EoT camera. Together, these tools are designed to give doctors a much clearer view deep inside your lungs during a regular bronchoscopy procedure.
The main aim is to see if these new tools are safe to use and if they can help doctors find lung problems more accurately and take better samples. If successful, this could mean quicker and more accurate diagnoses for people with lung conditions, helping them get the right treatment sooner.
Key takeaways
- Testing new cameras to see deeper into the lungs during a bronchoscopy.
- Aims to improve finding problems and taking accurate samples for diagnosis.
- Might add up to 25 minutes to a routine bronchoscopy procedure.
- No direct benefit for you, but could improve future patient care.
- Your standard medical care will not be affected.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
You might be able to take part in this study if you are 16 years old or older and your doctor suspects you have lung cancer or you've already been diagnosed with it. You also need to be having a planned bronchoscopy (a common procedure where doctors look inside your lungs) as part of your usual medical care, and your consultant must think you're well enough for the study's extra steps.
It's also important that you are able to understand what the study involves and agree to take part. However, if you are currently pregnant, or if your doctor doesn't think you can safely go through the study's procedures, you won't be able to join. Also, if you regularly use oxygen therapy, this study might not be suitable for you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 16 years old or older?
- Do you have suspected or confirmed lung cancer?
- Are you already scheduled for a bronchoscopy?
- Has your consultant said you're suitable for the extra study steps?
- Are you able to understand and agree to take part?
- Are you definitely not pregnant?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, the first step is to give your permission (this is called 'informed consent'). The research team will then check your medical records and recent CT scans to make sure the study is right for you. If you could become pregnant, you'll be asked to provide a urine sample for a pregnancy test.
Before your bronchoscopy, the team will do a quick health check, including your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. The research part will happen during your normal bronchoscopy. While you are sedated, the tiny EoT camera will be guided into your lungs through the bronchoscope. The images will be shown on the KronoScan system. After the imaging, small tissue samples will be taken from any areas of concern, just like in a standard bronchoscopy. Your doctor will decide what samples are needed based on what they see.
The research part might add up to 25 minutes to your usual bronchoscopy, which normally takes about 25-30 minutes. After the procedure, you'll have typical post-bronchoscopy care, including a chest X-ray. A research team member will check your vital signs one hour and four hours later, with an extra heart and breathing assessment at four hours. If you're staying in the hospital, you'll have follow-up visits after 24 hours and 7 days. If you're an outpatient, these follow-ups will be by phone, checking for any problems or side effects.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh at Little FranceCity onlyLothian, Scotland
Common questions
What is a bronchoscopy?
It's a procedure where a doctor uses a thin tube with a camera to look inside your lungs and sometimes take small samples.
Will I feel pain during the study?
You will be sedated for the bronchoscopy, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure itself.
How long does the study last?
The research part adds up to 25 minutes to your standard bronchoscopy. You'll also have a few follow-up checks over 7 days.
Will this study affect my usual medical care?
No, taking part in this study will not affect the medical care you receive from your doctors.
Will my information be kept private?
Yes, all your personal and medical information will be kept strictly confidential and anonymous.
How to find out more
Jean Antonelli
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.