Robotic Bronchoscopy May Improve Timing and Accuracy of Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Posted: Wednesday, June 16, 2021
The University Hospitals (UH) Cleveland Medical Center announced the use of the Auris Health’s Monarch™ Platform, which may improve both the timing and accuracy of lung cancer diagnoses. The new technology focuses on identifying small and difficult-to-reach nodules in the periphery of the lungs.
“Getting a good, accurate biopsy and being able to make a precise diagnosis will lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, resulting in improved outcomes for patients,” said Benjamin Young, MD, Medical Director of Bronchoscopy at UH Cleveland Medical Center in a press release. “This technology is really exciting and a giant step forward in bronchoscope design. Monarch will allow us to reach smaller peripheral lung nodules that are now generally not accessible with current techniques and technology.”
The Monarch Platform uses a flexible robotic endoscope to enhance navigation and vision of the periphery of the lungs. The technology also combines traditional endoscopic views of the lung with computer-assisted navigation based on 3D models of the patient’s lungs—allowing for constant bronchoscopic vision for the whole procedure.
“Compared to the current technology, robotic bronchoscopy doubles—maybe even triples—our ability to successfully sample smaller lesions; those we might not even try for now,” said Dr. Young. “With robotic bronchoscopy, we can more accurately evaluate incidental findings, sparing patients from further imaging or additional procedures and relieving them of unnecessary doubt and anxiety.”