Argon plasma coagulation

Argon plasma coagulation (APC) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat blockages and control bleeding in the airways. It works by using ionized argon gas to carry an electrical current to the tissue, helping to stop bleeding and seal off affected areas without direct contact. APC may also be used in other parts of the body, such as the digestive tract, to control bleeding and remove abnormal tissue.

Penn Medicine’s interventional pulmonology team performs hundreds of targeted airway procedures each year, including APC.

People with airway blockages caused by cancerous (malignant) growths may be treated with APC to reduce these obstructions, making it easier to breathe. It is also used for people who are coughing up blood (hemoptysis) due to tumors inside the airways or cancer that has spread. APC can be effective for people with noncancerous (benign) airway tumors or scar tissue that causes narrowing (stenosis) of the airways. By shrinking or removing these obstructions, APC can improve airflow and relieve symptoms.

APC is a bronchoscopic procedure, meaning it is performed using a thin, flexible or rigid tube with a camera (bronchoscope) that allows doctors to see inside the airways. Here’s what to expect from the procedure:

• You’ll be given either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the type of bronchoscope used and the complexity of the procedure.
• The bronchoscope is inserted through the mouth or nose and guided into the airways.
• A thin catheter is passed through the bronchoscope to reach the targeted area.
• Ionized argon gas is released, creating plasma that transmits an electrical current to coagulate (seal) tissue without direct contact.

Afterward, you’ll be monitored in a recovery area until the effects of anesthesia wear off. Since it is a minimally invasive procedure, overnight hospital stays are usually not required.

After APC, you may experience:

• Throat discomfort from the bronchoscope, which usually fades within a day or two
• Coughing as the airways adjust
• Short-term hoarseness if the vocal cords were affected

These symptoms typically go away on their own. Drinking plenty of fluids and resting your voice can help with recovery. Most people can return to normal activities within a day, but your doctor may provide specific instructions based on your condition.

While argon plasma treatment is considered safe, there are some potential risks, such as minor bleeding or airway swelling, which could cause temporary breathing difficulty. Your care team will monitor you closely during and after the procedure to minimize risks. If you experience severe pain, trouble breathing, or other symptoms worsening after discharge from the hospital, contact your doctor.

One of the first providers of interventional pulmonology care in the nation, Penn Medicine remains a leader, offering advanced, minimally invasive airway procedures like argon plasma coagulation.

Our experts collaborate across multiple specialties—including pulmonary medicine, thoracic surgery, and transplant services—to provide complete, seamless care. For our patients with lung cancer, we are able to coordinate tailored treatment plans with our acclaimed oncology specialists.