When it comes to detecting early-stage lung cancer, LewisGale Regional Health System offers one of the most advanced lung navigation system available in the area at LewisGale Medical Center.
LewisGale is the first in Western Virginia to offer the super Dimension i?Logic System as an option for patients with lesions deep within the lungs. The Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy (ENB) combines GPS-like technology with a catheter-based system to locate, biopsy, and prepare to treat lung lesions that were previously hard to reach.
“This device allows us to go into the outer aspects of the lungs, in a minimally invasive manner, which we previously could not reach without open surgery or a chest needle biopsy,” said LewisGale Pulmonologist David Killeen, D.O. “This system allows us to use the patient’s CT scan in combination with electromagnetic sensors to locate the abnormality inside the lungs that was detected on the scan. It operates a lot like the GPS system in a car.”
During the procedure, a bronchoscope is placed through the patient’s mouth and into the airways of the lungs. This is an outpatient procedure, so patients typically go home the same day.
“It’s about improving the patient’s survival rate,” said Killeen. “If you can catch an abnormality when it’s small and hasn’t spread, the likelihood of a cure is much higher.”
ENB can also be used in the treatment of lung cancer. Doctors can use this procedure to place markers around a confirmed cancer to more effectively target the tumor with radiation therapy while sparing healthy tissue.
“We are pleased to offer this type of high-tech procedure in Southwest Virginia,” said Victor E. Giovanetti, President, LewisGale Regional Health System. “We want patients to know that they don’t have to travel outside the area to find some of the most advanced, life-saving treatments.”
