Cape Cod Healthcare’s multidisciplinary team of thoracic surgeons, oncology specialists, pathologists, interventional pulmonologists and oncology nurse navigators is dedicated to detecting and treating lung cancer as early as possible for the best possible outcomes for our patients. When a suspicious nodule or mass is identified via screening, these findings are reviewed as part of our Lung Nodule Program - helping to expedite additional diagnostic and treatment recommendations.
As a complement to our established Lung Nodule Program focused on regular low-dose CT scan (LDCT) screening for at-risk patients, Cape Cod Healthcare now offers the Ion Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy platform as an optimal option for qualifying patients needing lung biopsy procedures. Thoracic surgeon Dr. Jeff Spillane and interventional pulmonologist Dr. Michael Ayers are our specialized team trained in robotic bronchoscopy.
Precise, real-time biopsy for earlier detection
Ion's state-of-the-art technology helps detect lung cancer earlier and ultimately improve patient outcomes, with more reach, more stability and more precision as compared to manual biopsy techniques and without the need for invasive surgery or needle biopsies that puncture the skin. Developed by Intuitive, a leader in robotic-assisted technology, Ion features a thin and maneuverable catheter that allows navigation into a patient’s airway and deep into the lung with unprecedented stability, enabling physicians to be able to scope with 180-degree flexibility through all 18 segments of the lungs. A 3D map of a patient’s low dose CT scan is incorporated into the technology, providing a roadmap to navigate to even small lung nodules in difficult to reach locations. Because Ion enables physicians to obtain tissue samples from deep within the lung, it addresses a traditionally challenging aspect of lung biopsy. Its shape-sensing technology provides precise location and shape information throughout the biopsy process.
Once a biopsy is taken, a pathologist is present during the procedure to confirm diagnosis.
With 44% of lung cancer cases diagnosed at a late stage - when survival rates fall to just 7%, - early detection and treatment is crucial.
Improved patient experience and outcomes
Ion improves not only the precision of lung cancer biopsy for physicians, but also makes the procedure easier and safer for our patients. Its accurate and efficient collection of lung tissue means that informed decisions can be made from the procedure. Performed under general anesthesia, this minimally invasive, real-time biopsy method helps patients experience a quicker recovery and avoid the need for additional biopsies, greatly reducing the time from diagnosis to treatment - and ultimately helping to improve survival rates.
Learn more about how Intuitive's Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy solution is advancing lung biopsy and helping to save lives.
