Emory Johns Creek Hospital recently demonstrated the ION bronchoscopy system, a new non-surgical robotic tool designed to improve lung cancer detection. The event allowed clinicians and staff to observe how the technology can biopsy small or hard-to-reach lung nodules that may be indicative of cancer.
Stephanie Hampton, MD, assistant professor of pulmonary and critical care at Emory University School of Medicine, explained that previous methods limited doctors based on the size and location of lung nodules. “This new technology has improved our ability to access smaller and difficult-to-reach nodules and diagnose lung cancer earlier, which often leads to a better prognosis for patients,” Hampton said. “If we do suspect lung cancer, the ION also allows us to do multiple procedures at one time.”
The ION system is capable of biopsying nodules as small as 5 to 6 millimeters. Medical professionals note that early diagnosis is crucial in treating lung cancer effectively.
Rachel Medbery, MD, thoracic surgeon at Emory Healthcare and assistant professor in the Department of Surgery at Emory University School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of early detection: “The ION allows doctors to safely and accurately biopsy small nodules from within the airways of the lung. If lung cancer can be caught early and then removed, many patients do not need chemotherapy and will remain cancer free for a long time.”
The ION bronchoscopy system is currently available at several Emory Healthcare facilities, including Emory University Hospital, Emory University Hospital Midtown, Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital, and Emory Johns Creek Hospital.
