Revolutionary Robotic Lung Biopsies Transform Cancer Diagnosis at USZ
University Hospital Zurich (USZ) has been using a revolutionary robotic technology for lung biopsies since 2024, with over 600 procedures performed. A research team led by Thomas Gaisl has proven its superiority over conventional methods.
The robotic system has significantly improved diagnostic rates. It can detect tumors as small as 11 mm, a median size three times smaller than what conventional bronchoscopes can find. In a clinical study, the success rate of obtaining a biopsy with the robotic bronchoscope was over 84%, compared to a mere 23% with conventional methods. Even when the standard method failed, the robotic system succeeded in almost 93% of cases.
This technology has transformed lung cancer diagnosis at USZ. Since its introduction, over 75% of early-stage, treatable lung cancer cases have been diagnosed using the robotic system. Previously, many such cases were discovered in advanced stages. The research team now plans to explore whether this technology can combine diagnosis and treatment in a single step, using radio or microwave waves to destroy tumors immediately after biopsy.
The robotic bronchoscopy technology at USZ has proven to be a game-changer in lung cancer diagnosis. With a higher success rate and the ability to detect smaller tumors, it enables earlier treatment and better patient outcomes. Future research aims to integrate diagnosis and treatment in a single procedure.
