The main aim of the procedure in the studies was palliation of symptoms such as cough, dyspnoea and haemoptysis. In one case series of 521 patients, 86% (448 out of 521) had improvement in one or more symptoms and quality of life scores were significantly improved. Dyspnoea improved in 59% (300 out of 507) of patients. In two further studies, dyspnoea improved in 71% (12 out of 17) and 81% (87 out of 107) of patients. For more details, refer to the overview.
The Specialist Advisors did not express any major concerns about the efficacy of this procedure.
A large case series study reported in-hospital mortality of 1% (7 out of 521), which was due to respiratory failure. This study also reported that 3% (16 out of 521) of patients developed respiratory distress after the procedure.
A case series study of 27 patients reported one death due to myocardial ischaemia. Another study of 22 patients reported one cardiopulmonary arrest during the procedure. Two studies reported changes to the heart rhythm in 2% (12 out of 521) and 11% (3 out of 27) of patients. For more details, refer to the overview.
The Specialist Advisors listed haemorrhage, fistula formation, cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory distress and infection as potential adverse effects.
The evidence considered by the committee is in the overview.