Washington Regional offers the Ion Robotic System, designed to improve diagnosis of lung cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. When lung cancer is detected at an early stage, the five-year survival rate for lung cancer increases to 92%.

LUNG BIOPSY WITH ION

When a nodule is found in a patient’s lung, the patient is referred to a pulmonologist, which is a doctor that specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases that affect the respiratory system. The pulmonologist will need to perform a biopsy to collect tissue from the nodule.

For patients who are candidates, the Ion system offers better precision and reach compared to traditional biopsy methods. This allows pulmonologists to perform a minimally invasive biopsy of suspicious, hard-to-reach nodules deep within the lung. 

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The procedure is done under general anesthesia. While the patient is asleep, the pulmonologist inserts a thin catheter, or tube, through the airway. Using the patient’s CT scan along with unique "shape-sensing" technology, the Ion Robotic System guides the catheter directly to the nodule following a pre-planned pathway through the lungs. Pulmonologists are able to reach over 95% of lesions using this technology. Once the catheter reaches the target, biopsy tools are passed through to obtain small tissue samples from the nodule.

PATIENT BENEFITS

Ion’s enhanced precision means less discomfort, lower risk of bleeding or damage to surrounding lung tissue, and a faster recovery for the patient. 

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE

After the patient wakes up, the pulmonologist will discuss how the procedure went and next steps if additional treatment is required. Many patients go home the same day as their biopsy procedure.

HAVE QUESTIONS OR WANT MORE INFORMATION?

For more information, contact your primary care provider, pulmonologist or click here.