Yousef R. Shweihat, M.D., of Marshall Health Network completes 300th robotic bronchoscopy using the MONARCH™ Platform

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Yousef R. Shweihat, M.D., of Marshall Health Network (MHN) celebrated a new milestone in August by completing his 300th robotic bronchoscopy using the MONARCH™ Platform. 

“With the MONARCH, I am able to diagnose lung nodules earlier and with greater accuracy. This means patients have more options and the best possible chance for a positive outcome when it comes to lung cancer treatment,” said Shweihat, a board-certified pulmonologist at MHN and professor at the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine. “It is a privilege to care for patients and their families in this way.”  

The minimally-invasive procedure is performed using a bronchoscope to gain access to the lungs. Under the direction of a handheld controller, a catheter is passed through the bronchoscope into the airways. A combination of real-time visualization through tiny cameras and electromagnetic navigation, similar to a car’s GPS, is used to create a roadmap for the physician to find the nodule and retrieve a tissue sample.  

The robotic system allows the physician precise control and stability, making it easier to reach nodules deep in the lung without invasive surgery. The physician maintains full control of the system throughout the procedure.  

Since using the MONARCH Platform, Shweihat has been able to evaluate nodules as small as 7 mm due to the enhanced ability to target hard-to-reach lung nodules. By providing an earlier diagnosis, opportunities for treatment discussions can happen sooner.  

Marshall Health Network is the only health system in the region offering the MONARCH technology, with outpatient procedures performed at Cabell Huntington Hospital.  

Shweihat is an expert in the minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, with extensive experience in the management of malignant airway obstruction, complex airway management, pleural diseases and symptom relief with minimally invasive procedures such as indwelling pleural catheters. He also serves as the director of interventional pulmonology and lung nodule/cancer program at Marshall Health Network.  

West Virginia has one of the highest rates of lung cancer in the nation. Individuals who think they might be at risk should talk to their doctor about being screened. Screenings using low-dose CT scans are available without a referral at Marshall Health Network.  To schedule your low-dose CT lung cancer screening, call 304.781.LUNG.  

For appointments or more information, contact the CHH Center for Lung Health in Huntington at 304.399.2881. 

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