Interventional pulmonology represents a significant advancement in respiratory medicine, offering minimally invasive procedures that bring several key benefits to patients. Whether managing chronic lung conditions or diagnosing serious illnesses like lung cancer, these advanced techniques provide effective solutions with fewer risks and faster recovery times.
Reduce Risk and Improve Diagnostic Yield
Interventional pulmonology offers the latest cutting-edge technology to provide diagnosis for a variety of lung conditions using minimally invasive techniques. These technological advancements include the use of Robotic Bronchoscopy technology to biopsy small lung nodules, advanced imaging platforms to improve diagnostic accuracy, and the use of Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided bronchoscopy to sample lymph nodes in the chest, obviating the need for surgical biopsies that are typically more invasive. Robotic technology has also been shown to result in less risk of lung collapse compared with conventional needle biopsies performed by Interventional Radiologists.
Early Diagnosis
Advanced imaging and diagnostic tools used in interventional pulmonology enable early detection of lung diseases. This capability is particularly vital in identifying lung cancer at its earliest stages when treatment options are most effective. Early intervention improves survival rates and enhances quality of life by minimizing disease progression and associated complications.
Novel Endoscopic Treatment Options for Common Lung Conditions
Precise targeting of affected areas within the lungs or airways using advanced tools and techniques improves treatment outcomes. Interventional pulmonology plays a crucial role in managing common chronic conditions such as COPD and asthma by offering better symptom control and reducing the frequency and severity of exacerbations.
Endoscopic Lung Volume Reduction - a new FDA-approved procedure targeting patients with advanced emphysema - can offer life-altering interventions for patients struggling with breathlessness. Interventional pulmonologists can insert one way valves to close a specific area of the lung that is most diseases, thereby allowing other areas of the lung to work better.
For patients with severe persistent asthma, a procedure called Bronchial Thermoplasty allows interventional pulmonologists to deliver heat energy via a small camera to reduce the spasm of the airway, thereby improving asthma symptoms.
Minimally Invasive Procedures To Improve Cancer-Related Breathlessness
For patients suffering from advanced cancer that is narrowing air passages, Interventional Pulmonologists offer a variety of treatment options including Rigid Bronchoscopy. placement of airway stents, including novel custom made 3D printed stents, ablation of tumor that is obstructing airflow, and drainage of fluid around the lung, all of which are important procedures that can improve quality of life.
For more information or to explore interventional pulmonology options, consult our specialist, Dr. Eugene Shostak, at Solara. We are committed to delivering advanced care tailored to your unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes for your respiratory health.
published: July 1, 2024, 3:44 p.m.