First in Central Montana to offer robotic-assisted bronchoscopy technology for early and accurate lung cancer diagnosis
Great Falls, MT — Great Falls Hospital proudly announces the completion of its 50th ION robotic-assisted bronchoscopy procedure, a significant milestone in the region’s fight against lung cancer. As the first hospital in Central Montana to introduce this advanced robotic navigational technology, Great Falls Hospital continues to build on its reputation as a destination center for pulmonary and thoracic oncologic care. In addition to reaching this exciting milestone, Great Falls Hospital is proud to announce it has surpassed all other ION programs in the state in terms of volume – commandeering the #1 program in Montana in just six short months.
The ION Endoluminal System by Intuitive represents a major advancement in minimally invasive lung diagnostics. This cutting-edge system allows physicians to precisely navigate deep into the lung’s airways to reach small or difficult-to-access nodules and obtain accurate biopsies — often detecting potential cancers earlier than ever before.
“Reaching our 50th ION case is an incredible achievement and doing so in the month of November – Lung Cancer Awareness Month makes it even more special. The milestone reflects our commitment to providing the highest level of care to our community,” said Dr. Megan Sisk, Pulmonologist at Great Falls Clinic and Hospital. “This technology allows us to diagnose lung cancer earlier and more safely, giving patients the best possible chance for successful treatment — all without leaving Central Montana.”
Since introducing the ION robotic-assisted bronchoscopy in May, Great Falls Hospital’s pulmonary and thoracic specialists have been able to perform procedures with greater precision and reduced risk, helping patients receive accurate diagnoses and treatment plans faster.
“Being the first in Central Montana to bring robotic navigational bronchoscopy to our community underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence,” said Mark Robinson, CEO of Great Falls Clinic and Hospital. “We’re proud to offer technology and expertise typically found in major metropolitan centers right here at home.”
This milestone marks an important step forward in Great Falls Hospital’s mission to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care close to home. The organization’s lung health and thoracic oncology programs now encompass screening, diagnostics, minimally invasive surgery, and coordinated treatment planning — all supported by an expert multidisciplinary team.
If you or a loved one is interested in lung cancer screening or have a lung nodule, the Great Falls Clinic is accepting new patients. For more information about advanced lung and thoracic care at Great Falls Clinic and Hospital, visit www.gfclinic.com or call 406-454-2171.
About the Great Falls Clinic:
Founded in 1917, the Great Falls Clinic is Montana’s first group medical practice and one of the longest-standing healthcare providers in the state. What began with just five specialties has grown into a comprehensive network offering primary, specialty, surgical, and hospital care for patients across Central Montana.
As a provider-led organization, the Great Falls Clinic and Hospital remain committed to advancing compassionate, patient-centered care through teamwork, innovation, and the latest medical technology. Our mission is to deliver exceptional healthcare close to home—continuing more than a century of service to the community we’re proud to call our own.