Interventional pulmonology methods for diagnosis of lung cancer

Interventional pulmonology is a rapidly advancing subspecialty focused on minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for respiratory diseases. In this review the focus is on diagnostic modalities. These procedures enable precise evaluation of central and peripheral airway pathologies (e.g., EBUS-TBNA, navigational bronchoscopy). Access to peripheral lung parenchymal lesions is facilitated by modalities like C-arm CT-guided or electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy, combined with different new methods. Technological progress (e.g., robotics) continues to expand its capabilities. Essential training for an interventional pulmonologist includes advanced endoscopic skills, knowledge of imaging modalities, and multidisciplinary collaboration. These procedures significantly improve patient quality of life, offer therapeutic alternatives for inoperable patients, and are increasingly used as a curative option for early-stage malignancies.