Saint Joseph London Pulmonologist Performs First Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy

LONDON, Ky. (July 1, 2025) – Saint Joseph London recently performed its first robotic-assisted bronchoscopy using the ION system, which allows for more precise, minimally invasive lung biopsies. This is just the latest step in expanding access to advanced diagnostic tools for patients in Laurel County and the surrounding region.

“We’re excited to be able to offer this service to our patients,” said John Yanes, president of Saint Joseph London. “Bringing this type of technology to our hospital means our community can benefit from earlier diagnoses and advanced care without the need to travel for this high-level care.”

The robotic bronchoscopy helps pulmonologists reach small, difficult-to-access nodules in the lung with improved accuracy and less risk compared to traditional methods. It also allows patients to get more comprehensive answers, including diagnosis and staging within a single visit — which is especially important in early detection of lung cancer and treatment.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to offer this level of care locally. With this advanced technology, we’re now able to sample nodules in the lung that we used to refer out to tertiary centers in Lexington or even Nashville,” said Dr. Abdul Siddiqui, who successfully performed the first case. “Robotic bronchoscopy offers a high level of precision and minimally invasive diagnostics, so our patients can now begin comprehensive lung cancer care without any delay.”

The system uses a thin, flexible catheter with 3D navigation and shape sensing technology to guide tools deep into the lung. This advanced design provides greater stability and control during navigation, making it safer and more effective for physicians to sample small or peripheral nodules, which plays a critical role in timely and precise diagnosis.

Saint Joseph London is proud to add this to the list of services available locally, especially in an area where access to advanced procedures can sometimes be limited. The goal is to continue investing in tools that help provide earlier detection and better outcomes for patients.

About Saint Joseph Health

Saint Joseph Health, part of CommonSpirit Health, is one of the largest and most comprehensive health systems in the Commonwealth of Kentucky with 100 locations in 20 counties, including hospitals, physician groups, clinics, primary care centers, specialty institutes, home health agencies and an ambulatory Care Center. The hospitals in Saint Joseph Health are Flaget Memorial Hospital, Saint Joseph Berea, Saint Joseph East, Saint Joseph Hospital, Saint Joseph Jessamine, Saint Joseph London, Saint Joseph Mount Sterling, and Women’s Hospital at Saint Joseph East. In total, the health system serves patients in 35 counties statewide. Saint Joseph Health is dedicated to providing a wide array of services toward a goal of building a healthier future for all. Saint Joseph Health embodies a strong mission and faith-based heritage and works through local partnerships to expand access to care in the communities it serves.

About Saint Joseph London

Saint Joseph London is a 150-bed full-service hospital located in London, Kentucky. Established in 1926, the facility serves patients from southeastern Kentucky, including those from Clay, Laurel, Jackson, Whitley, Knox and Pulaski counties. The current $152 million regional hospital opened in 2010, and offers all private patient rooms, with most overlooking a small lake and garden on the 52-acre healing environment.

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