Pulmonology

Ion is used to perform robotic-assisted bronchoscopy. This system can reach all 18 segments of the lungs and be placed to obtain a biopsy. Ion is made by Intuitive, the pioneer in robotic-assisted surgery with da Vinci systems. It features:

Reach
The ultra-thin catheter and integrated vision probe provide the physician direct vision to reach all parts of the lungs.

Precision
The shape-sensing technology provides precise location and shape information throughout the whole biopsy process. The system holds the catheter in place for precise placement for biopsy tools.

Flexibility
The catheter can move 180° in all directions and the Flexision™ biopsy needle, a flexible biopsy needle compatible with Ion, help enable biopsy.

If a small mass or nodule is found on your lung, your doctor may recommend a biopsy, which involves obtaining a tissue sample from the mass and examining the cells under a microscope to determine if cancer or another disease is present. Fewer than 5% of nodules are actually cancerous. There are a number of ways to obtain tissue for biopsy, depending on the size of the nodule, the location within the lung, and your overall health.

• Spirometry is our most basic and common test. It measures how much air you breathe in and out of your lungs, and how quickly you breathe out.
• Lung volume testing measures the volume of air in the lungs, and how much air remains at the end of a normal breath. We use both the nitrogen washout test, where you breathe into a mouthpiece, and the lung plethysmography test. Lung plethysmography tests are performed in a small, airtight room at Monument Health Rapid City Hospital.
• Diffusing or diffusion capacity tests measure how easily oxygen enters the bloodstream.
• Our 6-minute walk test helps evaluate causes of shortness of breath.
• A methacholine challenge test (also known as a bronchoprovocation test) may be used to establish an asthma diagnosis. This test demonstrates whether your airway and lungs become smaller in response to the environment.

The pulmonary rehabilitation program is managed by respiratory therapists with oversight from board-certified pulmonologists. With a care team including doctors, nurses, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, exercise specialists and dietitians, it is an outpatient program that combines education, exercise and peer support, recommended for patients who frequently experience shortness of breath and cannot perform daily activities despite the use of medication.

Our pulmonary rehabilitation gym combines exercise training with nutrition consultations and other tactics to treat your underlying conditions. When necessary, Monument Health Home+ Medical Equipment has a range of devices that can help patients breathe better.

Some aspects of pulmonary rehabilitation can even be done in your home. Please speak with your care team to learn more.