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Robotic Bronchoscopy
What is it?
Robotic bronchoscopy is a new, high-tech way for doctors to examine your lungs and take a sample (biopsy) from suspicious spots, like nodules or small masses. It uses a flexible tube with a camera (called a bronchoscope), but with the help of a robotic system that gives doctors much more control and accuracy. This allows them to reach deeper, smaller, or harder-to-access areas of the lungs that are difficult to get to using traditional methods.
Why is it done?
Doctors use this procedure to find out what’s causing problems in the lungs, like cancer, infections, or inflammation. It’s especially useful when the spot is in a hard-to-reach area of the lung. Robotic bronchoscopy helps make sure the sample is taken from the exact right place, which improves the chances of getting a clear and accurate diagnosis.
How is it done?
You’ll be asleep under general anaesthesia during the procedure. The doctor inserts a thin tube through your mouth and into your lungs. They then use a robotic system to guide the tube exactly where it needs to go. The robot doesn’t move on its own; the doctor controls it using a handheld console that steers the bronchoscope through the airways (tubes) of the lungs. Once the right spot is reached, tiny tools are used to take tissue samples (biopsies) which are sent to the laboratory for testing. It may take up to a week for a result.
How is Robotic Bronchoscopy different from regular bronchoscopy?
With traditional bronchoscopy, the doctor manually controls the tube (bronchoscope), which can be challenging. Robotic bronchoscopy gives the doctor more precision and control. It uses 3D imaging and x-ray to guide the scope smoothly and accurately, even into small or curved lung passages to be able to target the abnormal area. It also allows the bronchoscope to stay steady while the sample is being taken.
What are the benefits?
Robotic bronchoscopy makes it easier to safely reach and biopsy tiny or tricky spots in the lungs. It improves the chances of getting an accurate diagnosis without needing more invasive procedures like surgery or needle biopsies through the chest wall.
How do I get ready for it?
- You’ll need to stop eating for at least 6 hours before the procedure.
- Some medications, especially blood thinners and diabetes medicines, may need to be paused before the procedure; your medical team will give you detailed instructions.
- You won’t be able to drive or operate machines for 24 hours after the anaesthesia, so make sure someone can take you home.
What are the alternatives?
There are other ways to get this information, such as using a needle from outside your body to take a small sample or doing a surgery to remove tissue. These options are available, but your doctor has looked at your situation and feels that the Robotic approach is the safest and most accurate choice for you.
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