Monarch Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy
Lung cancer is the #1 cancer killer – claiming more victims each year than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined. One of the reasons why lung cancer is so deadly is that it is difficult to diagnose safely and reliably when it is in stage 1 or 2. These nodules tend to be very small and deep in the periphery of the lung, requiring a transthoracic needle aspiration (TTNA) which has a higher complication rate than bronchoscopy. When a traditional, manual bronchoscopy is used, it often does not lead to a diagnosis.
With the Monarch™ Platform using Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy, our team of expert surgerons can potentially diagnose these small nodules during this early stage. This procedure is similar to traditional bronchoscopy and provides us with advanced precision and control that comes from robotic technology.
The Monarch Platform combines traditional camera views into the lung with computerassisted navigation based on 3-D models of your ient’s own lung anatomy. For the first time, we have the benefit of a platform designed to provide bronchoscopic visualization throughout the procedure.
What this means for you
Patients who have small, peripheral nodules can be diagnosed using a minimally invasive procedure. Because Billings Clinic is the first in Montana, Wyoming and Idaho to offer the Monarch Platform using Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy, your procedure and care will be close to home.
Schedule a meeting with your Primary Care Provider for additional details or contact our Monarch team at 406-435-LUNG (5864).
