Size Measurement and Segmentectomy Resection Margin of Early-Stage Lung Adenocarcinoma Manifesting on Virtual 3D Imagery and Pathology: A Pilot Correlation Study

Background: The objective of our study was to assess if 3D reconstructed images could be extrapolated to reflect pathologies, as evaluated by early-stage lung adenocarcinoma tumor size and simulated segmentectomy resection margin. Methods: Retrospectively selected patients (n = 18) who underwent segmentectomy at Changhua Christian Hospital between 2012 and 2018 and then had pulmonary 3D reconstruction using Ziostation2 were included in our study. Tumor size and simulated segmentectomy resection distance on a 3D model were measure and compared to pathology. Results: Both tumor size and segmentectomy resection margin showed positive correlations between 3D image measurements and pathological measurements. The resection margin showed a stronger correlation and was beneficial in pre-operative planning. Conclusions: A 3D reconstructed model aided understanding of pulmonary anatomy, prompting confidence in surgical approaches and ensured segmentectomy outcome success. Regardless of age and pulmonary function, 3D simulation can accurately mimic segmentectomy, making it a simple, effective and feasible pre-operative planning tool.