Objective To evaluate an apex semi-barbed absorbable suture localization device for small pulmonary nodules. Methods Twenty-one pig lungs were evenly divided into three groups: a semi-barbed absorbable suture group, a microcoil group, and a hookwire group. Semi-barbed absorbable sutures, microcoils, and hookwires were used in respective groups for lung puncture localization. Success of localization was then assessed, and the maximum anchoring force of the localized object was tested by means of a hand-drawn tension frame. All localization operations are performed using a " pre-filled" localization method . Six experts evaluated the three groups. Results All 21 positioning operations in the three groups were successful. The maximum anchoring force of the apex semi-barbed absorbable suture group was significantly better than that of the microcoil group [(1.089±0.288) N vs (0.066±0.015) N, P = 0. 000] and the hookwire group [(1.089±0.288) N vs (1.190±0.279) N, P = 0. 519]. All six experts considered that the flexibility of the absorbable apex semi-barbed suture was similar to that of the microcoil, which was significantly better than that of the hookwire. Conclusions Apex semi-barbed absorbable sutures for localization at small nodules in the lungs exhibit strong anchoring force, good flexibility, low dislocation probability, and no risk of metal residue, and have good potential for clinical application. Further evaluation is warranted.