Cryoprobe Versus Forceps for Transbronchial Biopsy

A smaller (1.1mm), flexible, single-use cryoprobe with an oversheath has been developed that can be used for transbronchial biopsies. This device has the potential to gather larger and higher quality tissue samples than the standard method using forceps, and with potentially fewer complications than older, larger versions of the cryoprobe.

For this study, patients will be randomized in a 1:1 fashion to transbronchial biopsy using a 1.1 mm cryoprobe versus 2.0 mm forceps, stratified by indication (evaluation of lung transplant allograft, diffuse parenchymal lung disease or pulmonary parenchymal lesion). Blinding of the proceduralist is not possible due to the nature of the procedure. Pathologists interpreting the biopsy samples will be blinded to the biopsy device used.

Patients enrolled in this study will have data collected by research staff for up to 30 days after the bronchoscopic biopsy procedure is performed. This 30-day follow-up period is the standard of care following bronchoscopic biopsy procedures.

Inclusion criteria

• Male or Female, ≥ 18-years-old
• Scheduled to undergo bronchoscopy with transbronchial biopsy per standard of care

Exclusion criteria

• Pregnant or nursing woman or woman of child-bearing potential who refuse to take a pregnancy test prior to enrollment
• Severe pulmonary hypertension (RVSP > 60 mmHg)
• Stroke within the last 6 months or myocardial infarction within the last 3 months
• Presence of bleeding disorder
• Platelet count < 50,000 per mL at time of enrollment
• Use of systemic anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy without the ability to hold therapy for the recommended time prior to invasive procedure (aspirin monotherapy is acceptable)
• Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) status
• Do Not Intubate (DNI) status