Why ION Matters
Sometimes, imaging tests like CT scans reveal lung nodules. While most are not cancer, it is important to know for sure. Traditional bronchoscopy can have difficulty reaching small or hard-to-access nodules, and in some cases, surgery was the only way to obtain a sample.
The ION system changes that by combining 3D navigation, robotic precision, and real-time guidance to improve both accuracy and safety. With ION, our team can:
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Access very small nodules (<1 cm) and those in the outer edges of the lung
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Obtain high-quality tissue samples that help doctors make faster, more confident diagnoses
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Reduce the need for surgery by offering a minimally invasive alternative
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Provide a safe, outpatient experience with little downtime
What Patients Can Expect
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Comfortable procedure – Performed under anesthesia so you’re asleep during the exam
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Minimally invasive – No surgical incisions required
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Outpatient care – Most patients go home the same day
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Fast results – Tissue samples are analyzed promptly to guide next steps
Clinical Advantages
For physicians and care teams, ION provides:
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Improved diagnostic yield compared to traditional bronchoscopy
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Precise navigation of complex airways using a fully articulating catheter (180° flexibility)
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Reliable access to peripheral lung nodules that are often unreachable with older tools
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Streamlined decision-making for oncology and surgical planning
Why Choose West Coast Pulmonary & Sleep Disorders Center?
We are among the first in the region to offer this advanced technology, combining cutting-edge robotics with the expertise of fellowship-trained pulmonary specialists. Our team is committed to:
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Delivering safe, accurate, and patient-centered care
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Communicating closely with referring providers
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Helping patients move from uncertainty to answers as quickly as possible
ION™ Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy
Advanced Technology for Precise Lung Nodule Diagnosis
At West Coast Pulmonary & Sleep Disorders Center, we are proud to offer the ION™ Endoluminal System, a robotic-assisted technology that allows our specialists to safely and accurately biopsy lung nodules—even those that are very small or located deep in the lung.
To learn more about ION Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy or to schedule a consultation, call 805-485-2400 or ask your physician about a referral.
Meet Our Team
The experienced team of medical providers at West Coast Pulmonary & Sleep Disorders Center is here to provide you with top-notch care that goes above and beyond to meet your needs. All of our providers are board-certified in internal medicine and many also hold additional board certifications in pulmonary disease, sleep medicine, and critical care medicine. Our bilingual staff can speak English and Spanish for our patients’ convenience.
