Intraoperative gamma probe-directed biopsy of asymptomatic suspected bone metastases.

Background: Radioisotope bone scanning is frequently used in staging malignancies. However, false-positive results are common, and biopsy is usually required. In the absence of plain radiographic abnormalities or local symptoms, localization of the area of abnormal tracer activity at the time of open rib or sternum biopsy may be difficult.

Pleural tenting during upper lobectomy decreases chest tube time and total hospitalization days.

Objective: A prolonged air leak after an upper lobectomy is a major determinant of morbidity and hospital stay. Creation of a pleural tent after upper lobectomy was used to investigate whether obliterating the usual postoperative intrapleural apical space with the parietal pleura would help shorten chest tube time.

Methods: From August, 1994, through January, 1997, 48 consecutive patients undergoing an isolated upper lobectomy for a neoplasm were reviewed.