Dr. Thamer R. Qaqish, Director of Thoracic Surgery at ECMC, utilizing the Ion robotic-assisted platform during a recent procedure.

Minimally Invasive Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy at Erie County Medical Center (ECMC)

Courtesy of Erie County Medical Center

At ECMC, we’ve invested in life-enhancing technology and better cancer care solutions so that our patients have access to quality care. That’s why we’re excited to announce we now offer a minimally invasive robotic-assisted bronchoscopy procedure with Ion.

Ion is a robotic-assisted platform that allows physicians to perform a minimally invasive biopsy of a person’s lung. Using Ion, physicians obtain tissue samples from deep within the lung, which can be quite challenging without the Ion platform. It may also help patients avoid having to undergo repeat biopsies.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths. However, when diagnosed at the earliest stage, known as stage IA-1, the average 5-year survival rate is 92%. Early-stage diagnosis can be difficult, but the Ion endoluminal system may help obtain tissue samples that facilitate a diagnosis. The system features an ultra-thin, ultra-maneuverable catheter that allows doctors to reach far into the peripheral lung. Its unprecedented stability also provides the best possible precision needed for biopsy compared to manual techniques. Ion was developed by Intuitive, the manufacturer of the da Vinci surgical system, and is built on more than two decades of leadership in robotic-assisted technology.

ECMC has chosen the Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy system because it provides more reach, more stability, and more precision. Our investment in Ion complements our robotic-assisted surgical program, enabling patients to receive all care — from biopsy to surgery —at our hospital.

For more information on minimally invasive robotic-assisted bronchoscopy at ECMC, please contact us at 716-898-3381 or visit www.ecmc.edu. November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. If you require a lung biopsy, don’t wait. Early screening and the most precise screening possible saves lives.