Shape-Sensing Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy vs. Electromagnetic Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy-A Comparative Cohort...

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Medical Technology
• Oncology

Background:

• Lung cancer is a major global health concern, with millions of peripheral pulmonary lesions diagnosed annually.
• Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy (RAB) offers enhanced visualization and stability for diagnosing these lesions.
• Two leading RAB platforms, Ion and Monarch, are increasingly adopted in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the diagnostic yield and safety of the Ion and Monarch RAB platforms.
• To provide data for clinical decision-making and institutional investment in RAB technology.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of patients undergoing RAB within six months of each platform's introduction.
• Collection of demographic and radiographic data.
• Definition of diagnostic yield as obtaining a malignant or specific benign diagnosis.

Main Results:

• The study included 56 Ion and 36 Monarch procedures.
• Comparable diagnostic yields were observed: 75% for Ion and 72% for Monarch (p=0.8).
• Both platforms demonstrated low complication rates, with one pneumothorax in each group.

Conclusions:

• Early use of Ion and Monarch RAB platforms indicates similar diagnostic effectiveness and safety.
• Larger studies with standardized protocols are recommended for comprehensive evaluation.