A new NHS pilot combining artificial intelligence with robotic technology aims at diagnosing patients with suspected lung cancer faster. This new approach uses AI software to help doctors detect cancers earlier, with fewer invasive tests. The pilot comes alongside plans for the NHS to expand lung cancer screening to ensure that every eligible person is invited for checks in less than five years.
How the New Technology Works
The suspected lung cancer patients could get answers sooner under a new NHS pilot by using AI and robotics technology. The process rapidly analysis lung scans and flag small lumps that are likely to be cancerous. The robotic camera is to be used to guide biopsy tools through the airways for better precision.
Reaching Small and Hard-to-Detect Lung Nodules
According to the team, the robot can reach even the smallest nodules as small as 6mm. These hidden deep nodules in the lung are often too risky or difficult to access using existing methods. With AI approach, the higher-risk areas are highlighted so that doctors can take precise tissue sample.
Fewer Scans and Earlier Cancer Detection
One of the benefits of this technique is that it can replace weeks of repeat scans and procedures with a single cancer biopsy. It could help transform lung cancer diagnosis as NHS screening programme aims at identifying more people with small nodules that would have gone undetected.
Expansion of NHS Lung Cancer Screening
The expansion is set to see NHS invite 1.4 million people for lung cancer check. It is expected to diagnose up to 50,000 cancers by 2035 and at least 23,000 at an earlier stage.
Expert View on the Future of Cancer Detection
Professor Peter Johnson, NHS England’s National Clinical Director for Cancer said, “This is a glimpse of the future of cancer detection. Innovation like this is exactly how we can help diagnose more cancers faster, so treatment can be most effective, and why the NHS continues to lead the way in bringing new technology safely into frontline care.”
Pilot Leadership and Implementation
The pilot is being led by Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, as the NHS continues to explore new technologies to improve frontline cancer care.
The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only. You should always consult with your healthcare professional for any medical needs.
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