Baptist Health uses robotic system for lung cancer detection

FORT SMITH, Ark. — Baptist Health–Fort Smith is ushering in a new era of lung cancer detection in the River Valley thanks to cutting-edge technology that allows doctors to identify lung diseases earlier — and more accurately — than ever before.

With the introduction of the Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy System, a revolutionary tool in the field of pulmonary care, physicians can now locate and biopsy tiny nodules deep within the lungs. This not only increases the chances of early diagnosis but also brings advanced medical capabilities closer to home for patients who might otherwise have to travel for such procedures.

“Things are changing all the time,” said Danielle Tolliver, a registered nurse in the Oncology Infusion Room at Baptist Health–Fort Smith. “They’re coming out with more advancements in treatment and testing, diagnosing new medications. If it can change the prognosis for people, and if it can change the life expectancy or the treatment plan options available to them, it’s exciting.”

For Dr. Muthukumar Radhakrishnan, who is leading the charge, the new technology is a “game changer.”

“It helps us in diagnosing peripheral, smaller lesions. Its main use is detecting lung nodules and early lung cancer,” Dr. Radhakrishnan explained. “It has the potential to considerably change treatment options.”

The Ion system works much like a GPS for the lungs. After a CT scan maps out the airways, the doctor uses a handheld controller to navigate a thin, flexible bronchoscope through the most delicate passages of the lungs. Real-time imagery ensures precision as the scope is guided to hard-to-reach areas, where it can then perform a biopsy with pinpoint accuracy.

And it all happens in a single day.

“It’s a same-day procedure,” said Dr. Radhakrishnan. “Patients come in, go under anesthesia, and once the robotic platform is connected via the endotracheal tube, we follow the pre-planned path to the nodule.”

The Ion system enhances both speed and accuracy, providing local patients and their referring physicians faster answers and a quicker path to treatment.

“Everybody is motivated and committed to helping patients and getting answers,” Dr. Radhakrishnan said. “The Ion robot is another piece that Baptist Health–Fort Smith is adding to show our commitment to the community and our patients’ goals.”

With tools like this, Baptist Health–Fort Smith is transforming the local landscape of lung care — bringing hope, innovation, and potentially life-saving detection right to the heart of the River Valley.