Cryoprobes better than conventional forceps for performing lung biopsies

A randomized controlled trial has found that cryoprobes, which are tools that apply extreme cold to tissues, are better than conventional forceps for performing so-called transbronchial lung biopsies in patients who are being assessed for certain lung conditions. Cryoprobes allowed for improved diagnosis of interstitial lung diseases because they collected larger sized samples that were of higher quality.

"These positive results are very promising although larger multicenter randomized trials are required to confirm the benefits and safety profile for this technique," said Dr. Virginia Pajares, the lead author of the Respirology study.