-News Release-
AdventHealth Redmond has launched the Ion robotic bronchoscopy platform, an advanced technology designed to enhance the evaluation and biopsy of pulmonary nodules and improve access to early lung cancer diagnosis for patients across Northwest Georgia. The first Ion procedure was performed on Aug. 26, 2026.
The addition of Ion expands AdventHealth Redmond’s pulmonary and thoracic oncology services by providing physicians with enhanced stability, precision, and reach within the lungs, including access to small and difficult-to-reach peripheral nodules. The launch also coincides with the reopening of the hospital’s lung nodule clinic, creating a more comprehensive pathway for identifying, evaluating, and diagnosing patients with lung nodules.
“Ion represents a significant advancement in our ability to diagnose lung abnormalities earlier and with greater precision,” said Dr. Bret Stysly, pulmonologist at AdventHealth Redmond. “By combining advanced robotic technology with our comprehensive lung nodule clinic, we can provide patients with timely evaluations and help guide the next steps in their care closer to home.”
When a lung nodule is discovered, obtaining an accurate diagnosis quickly is critical in determining the most appropriate treatment plan. Ion robotic bronchoscopy provides physicians with a minimally invasive approach to navigate deep into the lungs and biopsy small nodules that may have previously been difficult to access. The technology can also allow physicians, when clinically appropriate, to perform a biopsy and lymph node staging during the same anesthesia event, helping streamline the diagnostic process and potentially reduce the time between a suspected diagnosis and treatment planning.
Historically, some patients with small nodules may have undergone repeated imaging to monitor growth or been referred for alternative biopsy procedures that carry a higher risk of complications. Ion provides an additional option that can support earlier diagnosis and more informed treatment decisions.
The combination of the Ion robotic bronchoscopy platform and the reopened lung nodule clinic creates a seamless patient pathway from detection and evaluation to biopsy, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Patients now have access to comprehensive lung cancer services within one connected healthcare system.
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