First Patients Receive Robotic Support in Ground-Breaking Cancer Diagnosis

The Royal Adelaide Hospital has introduced robotic-assisted bronchoscopy technology to improve the early diagnosis of lung cancer. The advanced robotic system enables physicians to reach small or difficult-to-access lung lesions more accurately, helping patients receive faster diagnoses and begin treatment sooner.

South Australian patient Jayne Saul was among the first to undergo the procedure after doctors identified a lung lesion near her heart. The robotic assistant helped surgeons safely access the lesion for a biopsy, increasing the amount of tissue collected while reducing the need for multiple procedures.

Professor Phan Nguyen, who leads the trial, said:

”The robotic-assisted bronchoscopy allows physicians to access small lung nodules that previously have been impossible to reach or required multiple procedures. This reduces diagnostic uncertainty and anxiety for patients, reduces complications and allows cancers to be treated at an earlier, curable stage.”

The technology, known as the Ion Robotic Bronchoscope, has been described by doctors as providing “Google Maps” navigation for the lungs. Professor Nguyen is one of only two physicians in South Australia trained to perform the procedure, which is now available to patients across South Australia, the Northern Territory, and parts of Victoria and New South Wales.

South Australian Health Minister Blair Boyer said:

“The introduction of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy reinforces South Australia's reputation as a leader in adopting innovative healthcare technologies.”

Health officials noted that lung cancer remains one of the most difficult cancers to diagnose and treat. They added that detecting the disease at Stage 1 gives patients more than an 80% five-year survival rate, highlighting the potential impact of robotic-assisted procedures in improving patient outcomes.