Hamilton Medical Center Introduces Ion Robotic-assisted Bronchoscopy System

  • Friday, August 15, 2025
Sumedha Sonde, MD, demonstrating the Ion bronchoscopy system
Sumedha Sonde, MD, demonstrating the Ion bronchoscopy system

Hamilton Medical Center has launched Ion by Intuitive, a robotic-assisted bronchoscopy system that significantly enhances the early detection of lung cancer.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., largely because it’s often found too late. With its advanced navigation and precision, Ion allows physicians to biopsy tiny, hard-to-reach nodules earlier and more safely than traditional methods.

When lung cancer is diagnosed early, patients experience a nearly 8 times higher five-year survival rate than those diagnosed at a later stage.

“Ion gives us a powerful new tool in the fight against lung cancer,” said Sumedha Sonde, MD, pulmonologist. “It helps us reach deep into the lungs with greater safety and accuracy, allowing us to diagnose earlier and act faster.”

Hamilton’s program includes low-dose CT scans followed by Ion-assisted biopsies for eligible high-risk patients.

For appointments or referrals, call (706) 272-6565. For more information, visit VitruvianHealth.com/ion.

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