A new endoluminal resection technique and device: resector balloon.

Purpose: We have developed a new resection technique and designed a special balloon by which resection of endoluminal airway lesions can be safely and successfully done.

Description: From April to December 2006, 38 interventions were done in 30 patients; endobronchial tumor or granulation tissues were mechanically removed by a catheter by which the balloon was covered with a polyurethane mesh structure. Acute and long-term complications, results, advantages, and disadvantages of this new technique and device were determined.

Evaluation: Resection of endobronchial tumors and also control of bleeding and dilatations were successfully performed in 30 patients.

Conclusions: As an alternative to other endobronchial treatments, this new technique and device can be used as a safe method. In addition, the utilization of this new device does not need as much experience as other techniques. On the other hand this method does not need very expensive equipment, such as a laser or cryotherapy equipment.