Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy

When a lung nodule needs a closer look, getting answers quickly matters. Our pulmonology team is here to help.
740-779-8700

What is robotic-assisted bronchoscopy?

ION robotic bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive way to perform a biopsy — which is collecting a small tissue sample so it can be tested for cancer or other conditions. In the U.S., almost half of all lung biopsies are now performed with the ION robotic-assisted bronchoscopy system. Your doctor may recommend a biopsy if they find a spot or lung nodule on a CT scan or other imaging test to learn more about it.

This procedure uses robotic-assisted technology and a detailed 3D map created from your CT scan to reach lung nodules that may be difficult to access with conventional methods and tools. About 70% of lung nodules are found in the outer, narrowest areas of the lungs, and ION's flexible scope is designed to navigate these small airways.

Because the procedure works through your natural airways, there are no incisions and no punctures through the lung. Your care team gets the answers they need while reducing some of the risks associated with traditional needle biopsies.

“ION allows us to reach suspicious spots deep within the lung with incredible precision. In the past, patients often needed surgery to determine whether a nodule was cancer. Now, we can safely biopsy those areas with accuracy, sometimes saving patients from unnecessary surgery altogether.”
–Dr. Jesudoss, Pulmonologist, Adena Health

Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy vs. traditional biopsy

There are several ways to biopsy a lung nodule. For some patients, ION robotic bronchoscopy offers advantages such as a lower risk of lung collapse, the ability to evaluate multiple nodules during one procedure, and the potential to complete cancer staging at the same time. See how else it compares to a traditional needle biopsy:

Robotic-assisted bronchoscopyNeedle biopsy (TTNA)
Risk of lung collapse (pneumothorax)0% to 3.3%28%
Sample multiple nodules at onceYesNo
Staging in same procedureYesRequires a second procedure
AnesthesiaGeneral (fully asleep)Conscious sedation
Procedure length40 to 60 minutes25 minutes
Insurance coverageUsually coveredUsually covered
Both approaches can provide important answers. Your doctor will recommend the option that best fits your nodule's location, your overall health, and your individual situation.

How it works

1
Before your procedure

Your care team will reach out to review your imaging, medical history, and medications with you. They will explain exactly what to expect, including instructions about eating, drinking, and preparing for the day of your procedure.

2
During your procedure

Know that you'll be fully asleep under general anesthesia and won't feel the procedure, which typically takes 40 to 60 minutes. While you’re asleep, your doctor will use a detailed 3D map created from your CT scan to guide the ION scope through your airways to the lung nodule and collect small tissue samples for testing.

In some cases, additional lymph node evaluation and cancer staging can be performed during the same procedure, which may save you from needing future procedures or appointments.

3
After your procedure

Most patients return home the same day. Your biopsy samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis, and your care team will contact you to review the results and discuss next steps.

Staging is a process that helps doctors determine whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. With ION, this can often happen during the same procedure as your biopsy.

Frequently asked questions

Questions?

If your doctor has recommended a lung biopsy or you have questions about ION robotic bronchoscopy, we're here to help. Call us to schedule a consultation or learn more about your options.

Call Adena Pulmonology: 740-779-8700
Fax Adena Pulmonology: 740-779-8709