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Read MoreWhen it comes to lung cancer, timing is everything. As the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, lung cancer takes the lives of more than 350 Americans every day.
However, there's hope—when diagnosed early, patients have significantly higher five-year survival rates compared to a late-stage diagnosis. Intuitive’s Ion, a robotic-assisted bronchoscopy system, uses shape-sensing technology that offers minimally invasive biopsies that are more accurate than traditional methods.
"Early detection can make all the difference in a patient's outcome," said Patrick Ho, D.O., a pulmonary and critical care physician at Inspira Medical Group Pulmonary Vineland. "With the Ion system, we can reach deeper into the lungs with incredible precision, allowing us to biopsy suspicious nodules that might have been difficult to access with traditional methods."
How robotic-assisted bronchoscopy works
During a robotic-assisted bronchoscopy with the Ion system, an ultra-thin, flexible catheter is directed through the airways to a lung nodule, much like a GPS guides a car. Unlike traditional bronchoscopies, which may have limited reach, the Ion system enables access to smaller and harder-to-reach areas of the lungs.
“One of the most extraordinary features of this technology is its ability to lock into position once we reach the target area,” explains Dr. Ho. “This stability allows us to obtain tissue samples with incredible precision, even from small nodules.”
What to expect from a robotic-assisted bronchoscopy
This is what you can expect if your doctor recommends a biopsy using the Ion system:
- Before the procedure: Your care team will create a three-dimensional map of your lungs using CT scan images. This map helps determine the safest and most effective path to reach any suspicious areas in the lungs.
- During the procedure: While you’re under anesthesia, your doctor will use the map to guide an ultra-thin catheter through your mouth and into your lungs. No incisions or punctures are needed.
- Tissue sampling: Once the catheter reaches the targeted area, your doctor will biopsy small tissue samples for analysis. These samples are then sent to a pathologist to determine if cancer cells are present.
- After the procedure: You’ll spend some time in a recovery area as the anesthesia wears off. Most patients can go home the same day, but your doctor will provide specific post-procedure instructions.
“You may experience mild throat discomfort or a cough, which should subside within a day or two,” said Dr. Ho. “Your care team will follow up regarding your biopsy results and next steps.”
Benefits of robotic-assisted bronchoscopies
Robotic-assisted bronchoscopies improve the diagnostic process and overall patient experience. Their benefits include:
- A minimally invasive approach: Unlike traditional lung biopsies, which may require surgery or needle punctures through the chest, the Ion system accesses lung nodules through the airways, minimizing discomfort and speeding up recovery time.
- Greater precision and accuracy: The Ion system’s robotic-assisted navigation allows for more precise nodule targeting, leading to higher diagnostic accuracy and reduced risk of inconclusive results.
- An outpatient-friendly procedure: Most patients can go home the same day, minimizing disruption to their daily lives.
- Enhanced lung cancer detection: The system’s ability to reach deep into the smaller airways of the lungs means the potential diagnosis of lung cancer at an earlier stage, significantly improving treatment outcomes.
By offering a more accurate and efficient diagnostic experience, the Ion system helps ensure patients receive timely, personalized care that can make all the difference in the fight against lung cancer.
Take control of your lung health with Inspira
“With the Ion system, Inspira offers comprehensive lung cancer care—from screening to diagnosis and treatment—all under one roof,” said Dr. Ho. “This means patients don’t have to manage appointment scheduling at different facilities and can stay where their medical team knows their health history and can easily coordinate care.”
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Early detection saves lives. If a nodule is found and a biopsy is warranted, talk to your doctor about whether a robotic-assisted bronchoscopy with the Ion system is a good option for you.
