SC New York News

The UHS Pulmonary team at UHS Wilson Medical Center has reached a significant milestone by conducting its 100th procedure using the Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy tool. This technology is enhancing lung cancer diagnosis, providing patients with an opportunity for early detection.

UHS is the first hospital system in the Southern Tier to implement Ion. The Pulmonary Department began utilizing this technology in April 2024 and achieved this milestone within a year, reflecting their dedication to advancing patient care.

Trevor Flanagan, manager of UHS Pulmonary Services, commented on the team's efforts: “It really is incredible to see how dedicated pulmonary professionals are in improving the lives of patients with lung conditions.” He highlighted the impact of cutting-edge technology and personalized care plans on patient outcomes.

Ion enables physicians to access all 18 segments of the lungs with an ultra-thin catheter that navigates deep into peripheral areas. Its advanced mapping allows for targeting small nodules previously unreachable, facilitating early detection and treatment of lung cancer without unnecessary follow-up visits.

Muhammad Imtiaz, director of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, noted: “Robotic bronchoscopy has revolutionized the diagnosis of peripheral nodules.” He emphasized its minimally-invasive nature leading to better diagnostic yields and improved patient experiences by reducing complications such as pneumothorax and bleeding.

In summer 2024, Candita Lee from Berkshire, New York benefited from Ion when a CT scan revealed a concerning mark in her lung. The pulmonary team successfully removed her tumor without requiring radiation therapy.

Patients undergoing this procedure receive pathology results within a week post-operation. Muhammad Imran Ali stated: "Ion Robotic bronchoscopy has significantly improved our ability to biopsy lung nodules and diagnose lung cancer at a very early stage."