Electromagnetic Navigation: A Review

Electromagnetic navigation (EMN) is a relatively new tool which aids diagnostic yield of flexible bronchoscopy for the peripheral lung lesions. EMN provides a real-time guidance to steer biopsy instruments to the preselected peripheral lesion which is critical for a successful FB procedure. The procedure is safe and effective and can be performed with or without the use of fluoroscopy. The radial probe ultrasound has been used as an adjunct tool to EMN which can further increase the diagnostic yield. Although the up-front cost of the EMN technology and instrumentation is relatively high, it significantly increases the overall diagnostic yield of the flexible bronchoscopy. This innovation has also demonstrated its utility for certain therapeutic applications.