AHN Jefferson Hospital Launches New Ion Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy Technology to Advance Lung Cancer Diagnosis

- New technology will provide Jefferson physicians with an advanced, minimally invasive option for diagnosing suspicious lung nodules

JEFFERSON HILLS, Pa. (August 31, 2026) - Allegheny Health Network's (AHN) Jefferson Hospital is expanding its capabilities for diagnosing lung disease and lung cancer by preparing to introduce a new technology designed to advance the diagnoses of lung disease and lung cancer, with the upcoming arrival of the Ion Endoluminal System, a robotic-assisted bronchoscopy technology from Intuitive Surgical.

The Ion system will be new to AHN Jefferson Hospital and is designed to help interventional pulmonologists navigate deep into the lung to reach small, peripheral nodules that might otherwise be inaccessible through traditional biopsy methods.

The system's ultra-thin robotic catheter enters through the patient's mouth and throat, allowing for a guided, real-time, 3D imaging approach to bronchoscopy that enhances accuracy and precision in sampling tissue, and reduces complication risks for patients.

"When a patient has a suspicious lung nodule, getting an accurate diagnosis is an important first step in determining the right treatment," said Stephanie Baltaji, MD, interventional pulmonologist at AHN Jefferson Hospital. "Ion gives us a new, minimally invasive way to navigate to nodules that can be challenging to reach and obtain tissue for diagnosis. Bringing this technology to Jefferson means our patients can have access to advanced diagnostic care closer to home."

The addition of Ion further strengthens Jefferson Hospital's multidisciplinary approach to lung care, bringing together specialists across pulmonary and surgical disciplines to evaluate patients with suspicious lung nodules and determine the most appropriate course of care.

"Introducing Ion at Jefferson is another example of our commitment to bringing advanced technology and specialized care to the patients and families we serve," said Chong S. Park, MD, President of AHN Jefferson Hospital. "Our physicians now have access to a sophisticated new tool for diagnosing lung disease, and our patients can receive this advanced care within their local community."

Lung nodules are often discovered through CT scans and other forms of imaging. While many nodules are benign, some require additional testing or biopsy to determine whether cancer is present.

The size and location of a lung nodule can make obtaining a tissue sample challenging. Ion is designed to help physicians navigate through the lungs to reach peripheral nodules that may be difficult to access with conventional bronchoscopy.

The system's flexible, robotic-assisted catheter is controlled by the physician from a workstation, allowing for precise navigation through the patient's airways to the targeted area. Once the nodule is reached, the physician can obtain tissue samples for laboratory analysis.

The launch of Ion at Jefferson will expand the hospital's diagnostic capabilities and provide patients in the South Hills and surrounding communities with access to advanced robotic-assisted technology as part of their lung care.

The Ion system will be used by a multidisciplinary team of Jefferson physicians, including:

• Stephanie Baltaji, MD - Interventional Pulmonology
• Tarake Aljarod, MD - Interventional Pulmonology
• Kyle Holden, MD - Pulmonology
• Chelsea Ledgerwood, MD - Pulmonology
• Matthew Van Deusen, MD - Thoracic Surgery
• Mitsuko Takahashi, MD - Cardiothoracic Surgery

Together, these specialists provide patients with a coordinated approach to evaluating and treating lung disease, including lung cancer. For more information about the AHN Cancer Institute at Jefferson hospital, visit https://www.ahn.org/locations/hospitals/jefferson/specialties/cancer-institute.

About Allegheny Health Network
Allegheny Health Network (AHN.org) is an integrated health care delivery system serving the greater Western Pennsylvania region. The network is composed of 16 hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, Health + Wellness Pavilions, an employed physician organization, home- and community-based health services, a research institute, and a group purchasing organization. AHN provides patients with access to a complete spectrum of advanced medical services, including nationally recognized programs for primary and emergency care, cardiovascular disease, cancer care, orthopedic surgery, neurology and neurosurgery, women's health, diabetes and more. AHN employs approximately 27,000 people, has 3,000 physicians on its medical staff, and serves as a clinical campus for Drexel University College of Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and Duquesne University College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Media Contact

Bill Toland
Allegheny Health Network
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