Robotic lung cancer biopsies make recovery quicker

When Sandi G.’s primary care doctor ordered a CT scan due to her recent weight loss and history of smoking, she never imagined it would reveal a mass on her lungs. With a family history of lung cancer, and her brother having passed away from the disease at just 43, Sandi immediately knew she needed to prioritize her health.

After additional testing, including a PET scan, Sandi was referred to Dr. Megan Benedict, a pulmonologist at Ascension Sacred Heart Bay, for care. Dr. Benedict needed to perform a biopsy on the lung nodule, and used the Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy System.“Dr. Benedict was so personable and made me feel comfortable right away,” Sandi said. “The nurses and staff were also incredibly nice, attentive, and patient. That kind of care made a huge difference.”

That trust helped Sandi decide to go with the minimally invasive robotic procedure. The Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy provides 10x magnification and real-time 3D image guidance. This minimally invasive technology allowed Dr. Benedict to navigate even the smallest, hardest-to-reach areas of Sandi’s lung with precision. The tool helps diagnose and treat nodules that traditional bronchoscopes can’t easily access.

“Early detection can make all the difference when it comes to lung health,” said Dr.Benedict. “Screening allows us to find nodules or abnormalities before symptoms even appear, and having advanced technology like the Ion [Robotic Bronchoscopy System] means we can reach and biopsy areas of the lung that were once difficult or impossible to access. It gives our patients more accurate answers, faster, with less discomfort and that peace of mind is invaluable.”

Sandi was grateful to have access to advanced technology to help make her recovery easier. “The whole experience was nothing like what I expected,” Sandi said. Sandi described her Ion procedure as quick and smooth. “I was out the same day and back home before I knew it,” she shared. “I got my results within about a week, and thankfully, I was told I did not have cancer. The relief I felt after hearing that, especially with my brother’s history, was indescribable.”

Now, Sandi says she feels grateful for the compassionate care she received and the advanced technology that made her biopsy easier. “I would 100% recommend the Ion procedure,” she said. “If sharing my story helps someone else not be so afraid, then it’s worth it,” Sandi said. 

At Ascension Sacred Heart Bay, your oncologist starts by listening to understand you and your health concerns. Then, your cancer care team works with you to create a personalized care plan. 

We’re dedicated to delivering targeted cancer therapies with supportive cancer care services. Our specialists routinely review your care plan to help improve your survivorship and quality of life. Your multispecialty care team may include medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and other cancer specialists who diagnose and treat many types of cancer.

Learn more about advanced lung care or schedule an appointment with Dr. Benedict.