Single-Port Robot and Dynamic Imaging Hone Lung Resection Precision at Hackensack University Medical Center

Center among first in Northeast to incorporate Ion navigational bronchoscopy upgrade to address CT body divergence

Leading the rapid evolution in lung surgery, Hackensack University Medical Center was among the region’s first hospitals to adopt the Ion navigational bronchoscopy imaging software upgrade that addresses CT body divergence to give real-time nodule location confirmation.

Hackensack University Medical Center’s commitment to engaging technology to enhance patient care led them to become the first hospital in New Jersey to obtain the Ion robotic bronchoscopy platform in 2020. It allows thoracic surgeons and pulmonologists to navigate the lungs’ intricate tissue and vast network of narrow and delicate airways to access hard-to-reach nodules.

The latest Ion integrated cone beam CT software update is now available in select hospitals, including Hackensack University Medical Center, and allows direct communication between the real-time 3D imaging fluoroscope and the Ion system software.

In June 2023, the center added 3D fluoroscopy capable of performing a live CT scan to confirm the biopsy needle in the target. However, it still required multiple scans and repositioning of the needle to get there, adding radiation exposure for the patient and staff, anesthesia time, and risk of bleeding or lung collapse.

The new software update allows the 3D fluoroscope to directly communicate with the Ion software and immediately import the images. The doctor can then retarget the nodule directly, overcoming any CT body divergence.

“We're able to reliably reach smaller targets in more difficult areas of the lung. It allows us to potentially identify and diagnose lung cancers earlier and operate on them sooner, resulting in more lung-sparing surgeries, which in turn leads to shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery, preserved lung function and improved quality of life,” said Geoffrey Pelz, M.D., thoracic surgeon at Hackensack University Medical Center.

In addition to advances in navigational technology, the Hackensack University Medical Center team has readily integrated the latest robotic technology in lung surgery, including the recently FDA-approved application of the Intuitive da Vinci SP for single-port thoracic surgery. This eliminates the need for incisions between ribs and offers better visualization with nerve-sparing benefits.

Learn more about our innovations in pulmonology and lung surgery.