Sangamon Sun

HSHS St. John's Hospital has introduced the Ion endoluminal system, a new robotic-assisted technology for lung cancer biopsies. This advancement aims to reduce or eliminate the need for more invasive procedures, potentially accelerating diagnosis and treatment plans.

Dr. Ashish Tokhi, HSHS Central Illinois Market Chief Medical Officer, stated, "We are proud to make this investment in the latest lung cancer biopsy technology for our patients who are facing the fear of a potential cancer diagnosis." The system features a highly maneuverable catheter that allows pulmonologists precise access to suspicious nodules in deep lung tissue detected by CT scans.

Dr. Manjeshwar B. Prabhu from HSHS Medical Group Specialty Clinics explained that the Ion system surpasses traditional bronchoscopy by accessing all 18 segments of the lung. "The catheter’s ability to move 180 degrees in any direction and maneuver into hard-to-reach areas of the lung during an initial biopsy is a game-changer," Prabhu noted. This can shorten diagnosis time and expedite treatment if cancer is detected.

A study at the University of Michigan Health-West analyzed 399 cases using the Ion system between 2020 and 2023, reporting a diagnostic accuracy of 92% and a nearly 23% increase in early-stage lung cancer diagnoses.

Patients experience less discomfort with this less invasive procedure compared to traditional methods, leading to reduced recovery times. Prabhu emphasized that individuals with suspicious CT scan results should discuss the Ion system with their doctors as part of their path to improved lung health.