NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi Completes 100th Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy Case, Advancing Lung Cancer Care in the Bronx

Robots Catch Lung Cancer Quicker, Leads to More Effective Treatment

By Staff Reporter 

Bronx Voice 

February 2, 2026

BRONX, NY - NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi has reached an important milestone in the fight against lung cancer, completing its 100th case using Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy, a cutting-edge technology designed to detect early-stage lung cancer faster and with greater precision.

For patients, that speed can make all the difference. Traditional lung biopsies can take up to four months from initial imaging to diagnosis. With the Ion robotic bronchoscopy system, physicians at Jacobi can confirm a diagnosis in as little as one month, allowing treatment to begin sooner—and often when the cancer is most treatable.

Faster Lung Cancer Diagnosis Using Robotic Bronchoscopy

Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive lung biopsy technology that allows doctors to navigate deep into the lungs using a flexible catheter guided through the body’s natural airways. This approach makes it possible to reach small or hard-to-access lung nodules that were previously difficult—or impossible—to biopsy without surgery.

Jacobi Hospital is among a small number of medical centers in the region offering this advanced robotic lung biopsy platform, reinforcing its role as a leader in robotic-assisted pulmonary care in New York City.

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Patients diagnosed with lung cancer through Ion robotic bronchoscopy may also benefit from robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery using the Da Vinci system, which allows surgeons to remove small nodules with fewer complications and faster recovery times.

Identifying Early-Stage Lung Cancer When It’s Most Treatable

“Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy is a state-of-the-art technology for taking biopsies of very small lung nodules with precision, resulting in the lowest complication rate, and can help identify early-stage cancers,” said Dushyant Damania, MD, Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi | North Central Bronx.

“Once these patients are diagnosed with early-stage lung cancer, we can offer surgical removal for treatment that could cure the patient,” Dr. Damania explained.

Before the availability of robotic bronchoscopy, patients with lung nodules smaller than one centimeter often faced months—or even years—of repeated imaging or underwent surgery without confirmation of cancer.

“Our patients are very happy,” Dr. Damania added. “We can now biopsy these smaller nodules precisely, reduce uncertainty, and significantly lower anxiety by providing answers sooner.”

Lung Cancer Screening in the Bronx: Who Should Get Checked?

Lung cancer remains the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, and smoking is the leading cause. However, other risk factors—including genetics, exposure to secondhand smoke, gender, and chronic lung disease—also play a role.

Jacobi Hospital encourages lung cancer screening for patients between the ages of 50 and 80 with a history of smoking. The hospital offers low-dose CT lung cancer screening, which is:

• Completely non-invasive

• No injections or preparation required

• Widely available, including weekend appointments

Early screening can catch lung cancer before symptoms appear, when treatment options are more effective and outcomes are better.

A Holistic Approach to Lung Cancer Care

Patients who visit the Lung Cancer Screening Clinic at Jacobi and North Central Bronx Hospitals receive comprehensive care that goes beyond diagnosis. In addition to advanced imaging and biopsy options, patients are offered smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and behavioral support.

“A holistic approach, combining treatment with lifestyle changes, is key to ongoing care and recovery,” Dr. Damania emphasized.

Advancing Lung Cancer Care With Innovation and Access

Reaching 100 Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy cases is more than a number—it reflects NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi’s ongoing commitment to innovation, early cancer detection, and equitable access to advanced medical technology for Bronx residents and beyond.

As lung cancer outcomes continue to improve with earlier diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment, Jacobi’s investment in robotic technology is helping patients get answers faster—and giving many a better chance at a cure.