Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy

State-of-the-art technology for precise, rapid evaluation of lung nodules or abnormal spots.

Lung Nodule Clinic

Refer a Patient

A display screen on the the Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy platform.

Robotic-assisted diagnosis of lung nodules

Learning that an imaging scan found an abnormal spot on your lung can be stressful, and it’s natural to want answers quickly.

Is it lung cancer? What happens next?

East Alabama Health offers Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that allows our physicians to biopsy small, hard-to-reach lung nodules found on chest X-rays or CT scans.

This advanced technology helps our pulmonology specialists evaluate your case quickly, so you can move forward with clear answers and greater peace of mind.

How Ion helps evaluate lung nodules for cancer

With Ion, your physicians and care team can reach even small nodules deep within the lungs, which offers several benefits for you and your care.

Supports earlier diagnosis: Ion allows your physician to biopsy small, hard-to-reach lung nodules, so any signs of cancer can be found as early as possible.
Minimally invasive approach: Your care team reaches the nodule through your body’s natural airways, so there are no incisions.
Timely answers and treatment planning: Pathologists on-site at EAMC can test your samples right away, helping you get a diagnosis sooner and spend less time waiting.

When it comes to lung cancer, early detection generally leads to better outcomes. Ion helps your care team move more quickly from that first concern to a clear diagnosis and, if needed, the next steps in your treatment.

Patient referral process and timeline

If your X-ray or CT scan shows an abnormal spot on your lung, your primary care provider can refer you to the Lung Nodule Clinic at East Alabama Pulmonology for a closer look.

From the time a nodule is found to the start of treatment, the process typically takes about 12 weeks. That means you can get the answers and care you need sooner, rather than waiting months.

Lung nodule identified

A pulmonary nodule, or "spot on the lung," is identified during a chest CT scan or X-ray and may require further evaluation.
Lung Nodule Clinic referral

Your primary care provider refers you to the Lung Nodule Clinic at East Alabama Pulmonology for a specialized review of your imaging and risk factors.
Risk assessment appointment

A nurse navigator reviews your medical history and imaging results to determine the urgency of your evaluation and coordinate next steps.
Multidisciplinary review

Pulmonologists, radiologists, oncologists and other specialists collaborate to determine the most appropriate diagnostic approach for your case.
Ion robotic bronchoscopy

If appropriate, the Ion robotic bronchoscopy system is used to access and biopsy small lung nodules with minimally invasive precision.
Diagnosis and treatment planning

Once results are confirmed, your care team works quickly to connect you with the appropriate specialists and treatment plan, if needed.

Lung Nodule Clinic

The Lung Nodule Clinic at East Alabama Pulmonology identifies, evaluates and treats lung nodules found during diagnostic imaging scans. Our team of board-certified pulmonologists work with other specialists to catch lung cancer at its earliest stages.

About the Clinic

Meet our Lung Nodule Clinic team

At East Alabama Health, we bring a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating lung nodules, ensuring each patient's concern is reviewed by multiple specialists. Your lung nodule team includes pulmonologists, critical care physicians, pathologists and thoracic surgeons. If diagnosed with lung cancer, your team will guide you through next steps to connect with the care you need.

Provider details: Meshia Wallace, M.D.