Lebanon, IN – Witham Health Services is proud to announce the addition of the Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy System, a state-of-the-art, minimally invasive technology that enhances the early detection and diagnosis of lung cancer. Bringing this leading-edge care to the community reduces the need for patients to travel for advanced procedures.
The Ion System is a robotic-assisted platform that enables physicians to navigate deep into the lungs with exceptional precision to biopsy small or hard-to-reach nodules. This advanced approach improves diagnostic accuracy while remaining minimally invasive, offering patients a safer and more comfortable experience compared to traditional methods.
“This technology represents a significant step forward for our community,” said Wm. Ross Strong, M.D., Witham Chief Medical Officer. “By offering robotic bronchoscopy locally, we’re ensuring patients have access to the latest advancements in lung care without leaving the area.”
Advancing Care Through Early Detection
The Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy System plays a critical role in the next step of lung cancer detection, particularly following a lung screen utilizing a low-dose CT scan. When a lung screen or other procedure identifies a suspicious nodule, robotic bronchoscopy can help physicians reach and biopsy the area sooner, often avoiding more invasive procedures or prolonged monitoring.
“Robotic bronchoscopy is becoming the new standard of care for lung biopsy, especially for cancer screening,” said Benjamin Gayed, M.D., Director, Witham Medical Group. “Bringing this technology to Witham is an important move for our growing community. This technology will save lives.”
Early detection is key. Lung cancer found at an earlier stage is significantly more treatable, improving outcomes and survival rates. National guidelines recommend annual low-dose CT scans for individuals who are between ages 50 and 80, currently smoke, have a history of smoking, or have quit smoking within the past 15 years.
“Lung Cancer has been a leading cause of cancer death for decades. The Ion System, combined with appropriate screening, helps us detect and diagnose disease before it declares itself,” said Witham Pulmonologist, Christopher Huffer, M.D. “Detection at earlier stages is important, because treatment is typically more effective and more lives are saved.”
Bringing Advanced Care Closer to Home
With the addition of the Ion system, Witham continues its commitment to expanding access to high-quality, specialized care in the local community. For more information about Witham Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, lung cancer screening at Witham or the Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy System, visit www.witham.org/our-services/pulmonary-medicine.