ION Bronchoscopy

Revolutionizing the Patient Pathway

Traditionally, diagnosing lung cancer could require multiple biopsies over several months, delaying treatment. Ion aims to expedite diagnosis by accessing and biopsying hard-to-reach nodules located in the peripheral lung—home to over 70% of cancerous nodules. 

Learn more about this procedure on KTVB’s “Life in Balance." 

Is My Lung Nodule Cancerous?

If you or someone you know has a suspicious lung nodule or mass, the Ion endoluminal system by Intuitive can provide definitive answers.

About the Ion Endoluminal System

Developed by Intuitive, pioneers of robotic-assisted surgery with the da Vinci systems, Ion is a cutting-edge robotic-assisted bronchoscopy tool designed for precision. It features an ultra-thin, highly maneuverable catheter that delivers unprecedented stability and precision deep within the peripheral lung, enhancing biopsy accuracy. Key features include:

• Reach: Direct vision throughout the lungs with an ultra-thin catheter and integrated vision probe.
• Precision: Shape-sensing technology that offers accurate location tracking and stability during the biopsy.
• Flexibility: A 180° maneuverable catheter and the Flexision™ biopsy needle enhance the biopsy’s reach and effectiveness.

Patient Benefits with Ion

Before Ion, peripheral lung biopsies often required invasive techniques like CT-guided needle biopsies, which carry a risk of lung collapse. Ion’s flexible, shape-sensing catheter improves diagnostic accuracy with fewer risks, supporting early lung cancer detection and staging with a single minimally invasive procedure. Benefits include:

• Minimally Invasive: Reduces the need for invasive surgical biopsies.
• Enhanced Accessibility: Reaches previously inaccessible nodules.
• Early Detection: Facilitates earlier cancer diagnosis, improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.
• Efficient Surgery: Precisely marks lung nodules to streamline surgical procedures.

Your Experience

If robotic-assisted bronchoscopy is suitable for you, here’s what to expect:

• Your physician will navigate an ultra-thin catheter through your airway to the biopsy site.
• The flexible catheter can access all lung segments, even those deep within the outer lung.
• Once positioned, the catheter locks in place, and the physician will use specialized tools to collect tissue samples.
• Peace of mind for patients and their families: The Ion system can reach smaller and more difficult to access nodules. This way patients can be biopsied sooner with the results available rather than the “watch and wait” method that many providers have to take because of the location of the nodule.

Consult Your Physician

Discuss with your physician whether you are a suitable candidate for this non-invasive biopsy method.