Mon Health Medical Center Performs First Successful Monarch Robotic Procedure, Leads Region in Lung Cancer Diagnosis

Posted Date: 8/6/2021

Dr. Parag Chaudhari and Dr. Jaschar Shakuri-Rad

New innovation that holds promise to fight lung cancer is now in use at Mon Health Medical Center, with Dr. Parag Chaudhari's first three robotic bronchoscopy cases successfully completed.

Used to view the inside of the lungs and obtain a tissue sample for biopsy, the goal is to enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis of small and hard-to-reach nodules in the periphery of the lung. This technology integrates the latest advancements in robotics, software, data science, and endoscopy (the use of small cameras and tools to enter the body through its natural opening).

"Lung cancer is the leading cause of deaths worldwide, in part because it has no symptoms in its early stages," Mon Health Pulmonologist and Critical Care Specialist, Dr. Parag Chaudhari explains. "Without this technology, it was almost impossible to take a biopsy of certain nodules - the target was in site but could not be reached. Being able to successfully complete the first three procedures here at Mon Health Medical Center is an incredible step in diagnosing lung cancer earlier and saving lives here in West Virginia."

The Monarch platform utilizes a familiar controller-like interface that physicians use to navigate the flexible robotic endoscope to the periphery of the lung with improved reach, vision, and control. Combining traditional endoscopic views into the lung with computer-assisted navigation based on 3D models of the patient's lung anatomy, the Monarch platform provides physicians with continuous bronchoscope vision throughout the entire procedure.

"At Mon Health Medical Center, we are proud to be first in the region to provide numerous new and advanced surgical services, including the most advanced robotic platforms," said Dr. Jaschar Shakuri-Rad, Robotic Surgeon and Urologist at Mon Health Medical Center. "The Monarch system and our advanced Lung Cancer Program will provide patients with best in class care at a hospital that is known to treat patients like family."

Mon Health Medical Center is the first hospital in North Central West Virginia to utilize the Monarch platform.

"We are very proud of our robotic surgery team at Mon Health Medical Center, particularly Dr. Chaudhari," said David Goldberg, President and CEO of Mon Health System. "Providing advanced robotic surgery in our community will help advance our mission of enhancing the health of the communities we serve, one person at a time."

To request more information about the Monarch procedure, please visit monhealth.com/main/monarch-home. To learn more about the nationally recognized robotic team at Mon Health Medical Center, visit monhealth.com/main/robotic-surgery.

This technology was made possible through the Mon Health Medical Center Foundation and the generosity of its donors. To donate, visit monhealth.com/donate.

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