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Sentara launches robotic bronchoscopy program at Sentara Leigh Hospital
New technology enables earlier diagnosis and faster treatment planning
Sentara Health has introduced robotic-assisted bronchoscopy at Sentara Leigh Hospital, bringing a cutting-edge, minimally invasive technology to the early diagnosis of lung cancer and other pulmonary conditions.
Robotic bronchoscopy represents the next generation of lung biopsy procedures, offering a nonsurgical option for patients with small or hard-to-reach lung nodules, early-stage lung cancer, or those requiring highly precise tissue sampling for diagnosis and treatment planning. Using advanced robotic guidance and real-time imaging, physicians can navigate deep into the lungs with greater accuracy than traditional bronchoscopy methods.
“This technology allows us to reach areas of the lung that were previously very difficult to access,” said Dr. Simanta Dutta, Sentara pulmonologist and the program’s lead physician. “Earlier and more precise diagnoses mean patients can begin appropriate treatment sooner, when outcomes are often better.”
The robotic bronchoscopy system uses a patient’s 3D CT scan to create a detailed, three-dimensional map of the lungs. During the procedure, physicians guide a flexible scope through narrow lung pathways to collect small tissue samples from suspicious nodules. The procedure typically takes about 60 minutes, requires no incisions or punctures to the lung, and most patients are able to return home the same day.
In addition to improving precision, robotic bronchoscopy may reduce the need for a “watch and wait” approach. Patients who might otherwise undergo years of monitoring with imaging alone can now receive biopsies earlier, supporting faster diagnosis and treatment decisions.
Patients benefit from hospital system’s multidisciplinary tumor boards, where pulmonologists, medical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pathologists, radiologists, radiation oncologists, oncology nurse navigators, dietitians, palliative care specialists, and social workers collaborate to develop individualized care plans for each patient.
Robotic bronchoscopy strengthens Sentara’s comprehensive lung diagnostics network across the region. Navigational bronchoscopy services remain available at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, and Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, ensuring broad access to advanced pulmonary care.
The launch of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy underscores Sentara Health’s continued investment in innovation and its commitment to improving lung cancer detection, treatment planning, and outcomes for the communities it serves.
Robotic bronchoscopy represents the next generation of lung biopsy procedures, offering a nonsurgical option for patients with small or hard-to-reach lung nodules, early-stage lung cancer, or those requiring highly precise tissue sampling for diagnosis and treatment planning. Using advanced robotic guidance and real-time imaging, physicians can navigate deep into the lungs with greater accuracy than traditional bronchoscopy methods.
“This technology allows us to reach areas of the lung that were previously very difficult to access,” said Dr. Simanta Dutta, Sentara pulmonologist and the program’s lead physician. “Earlier and more precise diagnoses mean patients can begin appropriate treatment sooner, when outcomes are often better.”
The robotic bronchoscopy system uses a patient’s 3D CT scan to create a detailed, three-dimensional map of the lungs. During the procedure, physicians guide a flexible scope through narrow lung pathways to collect small tissue samples from suspicious nodules. The procedure typically takes about 60 minutes, requires no incisions or punctures to the lung, and most patients are able to return home the same day.
In addition to improving precision, robotic bronchoscopy may reduce the need for a “watch and wait” approach. Patients who might otherwise undergo years of monitoring with imaging alone can now receive biopsies earlier, supporting faster diagnosis and treatment decisions.
Patients benefit from hospital system’s multidisciplinary tumor boards, where pulmonologists, medical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pathologists, radiologists, radiation oncologists, oncology nurse navigators, dietitians, palliative care specialists, and social workers collaborate to develop individualized care plans for each patient.
Robotic bronchoscopy strengthens Sentara’s comprehensive lung diagnostics network across the region. Navigational bronchoscopy services remain available at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, and Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, ensuring broad access to advanced pulmonary care.
The launch of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy underscores Sentara Health’s continued investment in innovation and its commitment to improving lung cancer detection, treatment planning, and outcomes for the communities it serves.