Other Thoracic Treatment Options • Bronchial stents • Endobronchial ultrasound • Laser bronchoscopy • Minimally invasive lobectomies Diagnosing Lung Cancer and Bronchial Diseases without Surgery The Cone Health Heart and Vascular Center is among a select group of medical centers now offering endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) as an alternative to more invasive procedures for the diagnosis of lung cancer, infections and other diseases causing enlarged lymph nodes in the chest. A small ultrasound device is attached to the end of a bronchoscope and inserted through the mouth, traveling through the trachea to the chest. High-frequency sound waves create real-time images of anatomical structures, enabling physicians to see the lymph nodes and surrounding vessels outside the bronchial wall and to perform brushings and aspirate tissue or fluid samples. The technique reduces the need for mediastinoscopy — the minimally invasive surgical technique that to date has been the diagnostic standard. “EBUS lets us get to nodes we couldn’t reach with mediastinoscopy,” says cardiothoracic surgeon Edward Gerhardt, MD. “We can view and access lesions and distal lymph nodes located outside the internal surface of the airway and beyond the visual limits of the bronchoscope itself. It’s a vast improvement over a blind transbronchial needle biopsy.” •  Electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy is now available for biopsies of peripheral lung nodules. Physicians use a GPS-like system to navigate to the target site. The technology provides a safer alternative to needle biopsies performed with CT guidance. •  Minimally invasive thoracoscopic lobectomy is a surgical technique we offer for patients with lung cancer using a small 2- 3-inch incision with no rib spreading. Patients have less pain and a quicker recovery. •  Lung cancer screening is available using a low-dose CT scan for patients at high risk for the disease. The screening increases the likelihood of detection at an early stage when the potential for cure is higher. The program is combined with smoking cessation counseling and treatments to decrease future cancer risk. A dedicated nurse navigator works with the primary physician and patients. Recent investments in Cone Health’s thoracic program have ensured our status as one of the best in the state and a leader in redefining the standard of care. Among the latest additions to our program: Thoracic Services •  Multidisciplinary clinics include thoracic surgery, pulmonology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology and pathology. Our team approach to diagnosis and treatment streamlines time to treatment. •  Molecular testing is available when indicated to help us determine optimal targeted therapy. • Tumor ablation • Bronchial valves • Rib plating 22 23 Newer technologies, including more minimally invasive procedures, allow us to provide exeptional care tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Bryan Bartle, MD Cardiothoracic Surgeon ‘‘ ‘‘ CONE HEALTH | HEART AND VASCULAR CENTER CONE HEALTH | THE NETWORK FOR EXCEPTIONAL CARE