INSIGHT
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Prospective Study to Investigate the Management of Pulmonary Lesions in a Tertiary Hospital
IRAS ID
363013
Contact name
Christopher Orton
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Royal Brompton Hospital
Duration of Study in the UK
6 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the UK and worldwide. Survival depends heavily on how early the disease is detected, yet many patients in the UK are still diagnosed at a late stage. With the introduction of lung cancer screening programmes and rapid advances in diagnostic technology, it is vital that guidelines are updated to reflect new evidence and improve patient outcomes.
The current gold standard for biopsy of lung lesions is CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsy. While accurate, it carries higher risks of complications such as pneumothorax (collapsed lung) and bleeding. In addition, its diagnostic yield drops substantially for very small or technically challenging nodules. Newer techniques, including robotic-assisted bronchoscopy (RAB) with advanced imaging, allow doctors to navigate further into the lungs and may offer safer, equally effective alternatives. However, real-world data directly comparing these options remain limited.
The INSIGHT study is an observational study designed to address this evidence gap. It will collect detailed information on how lung nodules are investigated and treated at the Royal Brompton Hospital, without altering routine care. We will record information about procedures, results, complications, follow-up, and patient experience.
Three groups of patients will be included:
People who have already been treated since 2022 (review of existing records).
Patients currently undergoing procedures, who will be invited to join the study prospectively.
A smaller subgroup who will also complete questionnaires on pain, anxiety, recovery, and quality of life, and who may provide optional blood or tissue samples.
Participants will be followed for up to 12 months, mainly through medical records and, for some, brief follow-up calls.
The findings will help compare diagnostic approaches, measure their safety and impact on patients, and assess costs. By providing robust real-world evidence, the study aims to support updated national guidelines, reduce complications, and ultimately lower the mortality and morbidity from lung cancer.
REC name
HSC REC A
REC reference
25/NI/0162
Date of REC Opinion
27 Nov 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion