Robotic bronchoscopy and future directions of interventional pulmonology

To describe the emerging field of robotic bronchoscopy within advanced diagnostic bronchoscopy. We review the literature available for these two novel platforms to highlight their differences and discuss the impact on future directions.

There are two distinct technologies both known as robotic bronchoscopy. The Monarch robotic-assisted bronchoscopy is based on electromagnetic guidance whereas the Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy is founded on shape sensing technology. Although there is ongoing work to explore the capabilities of these systems, studies have shown that both are safe modalities. Furthermore, both hold promise to improve diagnostic yield and may eventually pave the way for therapeutic bronchoscopic ablation in the future.

Although both platforms fall under the umbrella term of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy, the Monarch and Ion systems are quite unique in their technology. Thus far, both have demonstrated safety, and early data shows promising results for improved diagnostic yield compared to previously advanced bronchoscopy modalities, especially when combined with advanced confirmatory imaging. Future directions may include bronchoscopic ablation of peripheral lesions given the stability and reach of these platforms.