Robotic technology speeds up lung cancer diagnosis

The National Cancer Plan puts the UK at the forefront of new technology in cancer services.

Patients across the North East and North Cumbria are already benefiting from earlier, safer lung cancer diagnosis thanks to cutting-edge robotic technology at the University Hospital of North Tees at Stockton-on-Tees.

Part-funded by Northern Cancer Alliance, an Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscope is a state-of-the-art tool which allows clinicians to reach previously inaccessible areas of the lung using a 3.5mm catheter and shape-sensing technology. It means healthcare staff can collect tissue samples from hard-to-reach nodules deep in the patient’s lungs – where over 70% of early lung cancers are typically found.

The procedure sees the bronchoscope inserted through a patient’s mouth while under general anaesthetic. Once inserted, the Ion system uses real-time imaging and GPS-like navigation to guide clinicians to suspicious nodules quickly and precisely.

Respiratory consultant Dr Vandana Jeebun is part of a team of chest physicians which delivers the service. She said: “Early diagnosis is critical to improving survival rates in lung cancer. The Ion system is supporting us in doing this. It’s allowing us to diagnose earlier and more accurately, reducing the need for invasive procedures and also speeding up access to life-saving treatment.”

In launching the plan, the NHS sets out a landmark ambition to transform cancer outcomes across England. For the first time, the health service commits to ensuring by 2035 three in four people diagnosed with cancer will be cancer‑free or living well five years after their diagnosis.

This ambition represents the fastest improvement in cancer survival this century and could mean 320,000 more people living longer, healthier lives over 10 years, and many more supported to live well after treatment or when living with cancer as a long-term condition.

Northern Cancer Alliance welcomes National Cancer Plan