Saline tract sealing to prevent pneumothorax and chest tube placement after computed tomography (CT)-guided lung biopsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Clin RadiolJul 1, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchRadiology (Diagnostic)
J J Pille, B N Pinheiro, J M Alano et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of saline tract sealing in preventing pneumothorax and chest tube placement after CT-guided lung biopsy in adults. The analysis included seven studies with 1455 patients. Saline sealing significantly reduced the risk of pneumothorax (RR: 0.46) and chest tube placement (RR: 0.22).
Key findings
- Saline tract sealing reduced pneumothorax risk (RR: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.35-0.61).
- The need for chest tube placement was significantly lower with saline sealing (RR: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.12-0.42).
- The analysis included 1455 patients across seven studies.
Why it matters
Understanding effective techniques to reduce complications from CT-guided lung biopsies is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Saline tract sealing offers a cost-effective method to minimize pneumothorax and the need for invasive interventions.