Monarch Robot 

An innovation in healthcare used to fight lung cancer is now in use at Forrest General Hospital. The goal of the MONARCH Platform from Ethicon is to provide access to small and hard-to-reach nodules in the periphery of the lung. MONARCH helps physicians achieve more-accurate diagnosis of lung nodules which means patients can begin treatment earlier. The technology combines the latest advancements in robotics, software, data science, and endoscopy (the use of small cameras and tools to enter the body through its natural openings).

Nearly 80 percent of people diagnosed with lung cancer do not survive the disease, in part because it is often found at an advanced stage. There are a variety of diagnostic options currently available for lung cancer, but many have limitations in accuracy, safety, or invasiveness. These limitations can lead to false positives, false negatives, or side effects such as pneumothorax (collapsed lung) and hemorrhage which may extend hospital stays and increase health care costs.

The MONARCH Platform uses a familiar controller-like attachment that physicians can use to operate the flexible robotic endoscope to the periphery of the lung with advanced reach, vision, and control. Combining traditional endoscopic views into the lung with computer-assisted navigation based on 3-D models of the patient’s own lung anatomy, the MONARCH Platform provides physicians with continuous bronchoscope vision throughout the entire procedure.

To book an appointment, contact your primary care physician.