The detection and diagnosis of early-stage lung cancer has taken a great leap forward at MedStar Franklin Square's Thoracic Cancer Center, with the use of the high-tech superDimension™/Bronchus system. This advanced imaging system allows minimally invasive biopsies of lesions anywhere in the lungs. We are proud to be among the first cancer centers in the country to offer superDimension.

Benefits of superDimension

Replacing the need for high-risk invasive procedures, such as chest needle biopsies and open surgeries, superDimension sets the stage for earlier lung cancer diagnosis, boosting survival rates and eliminating the need for the lengthy-not to mention stressful-"wait and see" approach after finding a questionable area on a thoracic CAT (CT) scan.

New hope for lung cancer patients

SuperDimension also allows patients to have minimally invasive biopsies and is often safer than many conventional biopsy techniques. Patients are good candidates if they have a history of:

• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Previous cancer surgery
• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatments

Patients such as these would normally not be able to tolerate an intrathoracic needle biopsy or major surgery for a spot that may turn out to be normal.

The superDimension procedure

The superDimension procedure is painless, often taking as little as five to 20 minutes, with patients remaining comfortable. This new technology allows MedStar Franklin Square interventional pulmonologists to follow a three-dimensional map into even the tiniest areas of the tracheobronchial tree (the farthest reaching branches of the lungs, where traditional diagnostics cannot reach) to perform a quick but thorough biopsy.

At MedStar Franklin Square, we offer endoscopic and endobronchial ultrasound at the same time as your superDimension™/Bronchus test, so there is no need to make two trips or have two surgical procedures that require anesthesia.

What you can expect from the SuperDimension procedure

1. As you are lying on a low-frequency electromagnetic bed, your surgeon will use a specialized catheter that captures a 3-D, electromagnetic map of your lungs.
2. Once your surgeon reaches the lesion, he or she will remove the catheter and insert an ultrasound device. This allows your surgeon to visualize the lesion and its position in the airway
3. Getting as close as possible to the lesion, your surgeon will use tiny surgical instruments to remove enough tissue for a quick biopsy.
4. You will be able to go home about an hour after the procedure; however, you may not drive yourself.

To make an appointment with one of our experienced lung cancer specialists, please call 443-777-5864 (LUNG).