Background. The localization of small lung nodules by palpation is not possible when videothoracoscopic surgery is performed. Transparietal fine needle biopsy is frequently not successful in small lung nodules. Methods and Results. The authors describe their experiences with percutaneous CT controlled marking of small lung parenchyma around small lung nodules by patent blue and contrast medium mixture. The method was used in 7 patients with nodule size from 7 mm to 25 mm. In all patients the surgeon was able to localize the nodule. Operation followed localization as soon as possible, the interval was from 60 to 120 minutes. Four of 7 nodules were benign, 3 nodules were malignant. Conclusions. New method of marking of small lung nodules makes a minimal invasive operation possible. The operation stress is lower and the time of hospitalization is shorter.

        Key words: computed tomography, CT, lung nodule, biopsy, localization, thoracoscopy.