UnityPoint Health – Trinity Achieves Milestone With 100th Robotic Lung Biopsy

UnityPoint Health® – Trinity is proud to mark a major  milestone with the successful completion of its 100th robotic bronchoscopy using the Ion endoluminal system. 

The procedure was performed in January 2026 by Naveen Kanathur, MD, UnityPoint Health – Trinity Rock Island Pulmonary. The technology was introduced in April 2025 and has since  helped expand access to precise, minimally invasive lung care at Trinity.  

“Reaching this milestone is a meaningful moment for our team and for the patients who trust us  with their care,” says Dr. Kanathur. “Technology like Ion allows us to care for patients in a way  that is both highly precise and less invasive.” 

Bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to biopsy lung tissue and diagnose  abnormalities. The Ion system features an ultra-thin, highly maneuverable catheter that allows  physicians to navigate deep into the lung, delivering enhanced stability and precision for biopsy  compared to manual techniques, improving both the accuracy and safety of lung biopsies. 

For Patricia, it provided something just as important – peace of mind. She underwent a robotic  bronchoscopy in January 2026 after doctors identified a lung nodule that had increased in size.  The biopsy confirmed the nodule was cancerous, but it was detected early. 

“I was anxious going into the procedure because if it was cancer, I wanted answers,” says  Patricia. “The entire process was great and went smoothly. The care team took the time to  explain everything and made me feel comfortable every step of the way.” 

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide and is the third most  common cancer in the United States. More Americans die from lung cancer than any other type  of cancer. 

“Earlier detection can change everything for patients,” says Dr. Kanathur. “When we’re able to  find cancer sooner, we can offer more treatment options, reduce uncertainty and give patients  and their loved one’s greater peace of mind.” 

To find out whether a robotic bronchoscopy is right for you, speak with your provider.