Efficacy of Large-Particle Gelatin Sponge Slurry for Tract Embolization in Preventing Pneumothorax After Percutaneous Lung Biopsy in Pulmonary Emphysema

Objective To evaluate the safety and efficacy of needle tract embolization using large-particle (i.e.,1400–2000µm) gelatin sponge slurry (ELS) in preventing pneumothorax after percutaneous lung biopsy in patients with pulmonary emphysema. Methods A total of 1,487 patients with pulmonary emphysema who underwent percutaneous lung biopsy were included in this retrospective study. Baseline characteristics, procedural details, and complications were compared between the two groups. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of pneumothorax. Results 592 patients received ELS, while 895 did not (non-ELS group). The overall pneumothorax rate was 24.2%. The pneumothorax rate was significantly lower in the ELS group compared to the non-ELS group (9.0% vs. 34.3%, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis confirmed that ELS was the only independent protective factor against pneumothorax (OR = 0.191, 95% CI: 0.139–0.262, p < 0.001). Although chest drainage was less frequent in the ELS group (6.3% vs. 19.2%), there was no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.027). Conclusion ELS significantly reduced the incidence of pneumothorax following percutaneous lung biopsy in patients with pulmonary emphysema and should be considered as a preventive measure in high-risk populations.