Advanced Minimally Invasive Lung Care
At NGPG Pulmonology, our interventional pulmonology team provides advanced, minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat complex conditions affecting the lungs, airways and pleura (the lining around the lungs). Using leading-edge technology and specialized expertise, we often can diagnose and treat lung conditions without traditional surgery.
Whether you’re experiencing unexplained breathing problems, have been diagnosed with a lung nodule or need further evaluation of a complex lung condition, our team is here to help.
What is Interventional Pulmonology?
Interventional pulmonology is a specialized field of pulmonary medicine focused on diagnosing and treating conditions involving the lungs, airways, chest lymph nodes and pleura using advanced minimally invasive techniques.
Many procedures are performed through a bronchoscope — a thin, flexible tube inserted through the airways — allowing physicians to evaluate and treat lung conditions with less discomfort and faster recovery than traditional surgical approaches.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Lung Care
Our advanced procedures may offer:
- Smaller or no incisions
- Less discomfort and tissue trauma
- Faster recovery times
- Earlier diagnosis and more accurate diagnosis
- Reduced risk of complications
- Less need for traditional surgery
- Access to advanced treatments close to home
Our goal is to provide the most effective treatment with the least disruption to your daily life.
Conditions We Evaluate & Treat
Interventional pulmonology can help diagnose and manage a wide range of respiratory conditions, including:
- Lung nodules and masses
Spots or growths in the lung that may require additional testing. - Lung cancer
Diagnosis, staging and treatment planning. - Enlarged chest lymph nodes
May be caused by infection, inflammation or cancer. - Pleural effusions
Fluid buildup around the lungs. - COPD and emphysema
Including evaluation for bronchoscopic lung volume reduction. - Interstitial lung disease
Conditions that cause inflammation or scarring of the lungs. - Airway obstruction or narrowing
Conditions that make breathing difficult. - Chronic cough or unexplained breathing symptoms
When routine testing has not provided answers. - Hemoptysis
Coughing up blood. - Non-resolving pneumonia
Lung infections that do not improve as expected. - Airway disorders
Including airway fistulas and foreign body removal.
Advanced Lung Cancer Evaluation
Interventional pulmonology plays a critical role in the early detection and diagnosis of lung cancer. When a lung nodule, mass or enlarged lymph node is identified, our team uses advanced technologies to obtain tissue samples and determine the best treatment approach.
We work closely with specialists in oncology, thoracic surgery, radiation oncology and radiology to ensure seamless, coordinated care from diagnosis through treatment.
Advanced Diagnostic Procedures
We offer state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques to identify lung and airway conditions with accuracy and efficiency, including:
- Bronchoscopy uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the airways and lungs.
- Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) combines bronchoscopy and ultrasound technology to evaluate lymph nodes and obtain tissue samples without surgery.
- Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy helps physicians reach small or difficult-to-access lung nodules with greater precision.
- Transbronchial biopsy and tissue sampling for diagnosis
- Bronchoalveolar lavage to assess infection or inflammation
These procedures allow our team to diagnose conditions earlier and guide timely treatment decisions.
Minimally Invasive Treatments
Our interventional pulmonology services include a variety of therapeutic procedures designed to relieve symptoms and improve lung function:
- Airway dilation to open narrowed airways
- Airway stent placement to maintain airflow
- Removal of airway blockages or foreign bodies
- Endobronchial therapies (such as laser or cautery) to treat tumors or bleeding
- Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction for select COPD patients
These treatments are typically performed using minimally invasive techniques, helping reduce recovery time and improve patient comfort.
Pleural Procedures
We also provide specialized care for conditions affecting the pleura (lining of the lungs), including:
- Thoracentesis to remove excess fluid
- Pleural catheter placement for ongoing fluid management
- Ultrasound-guided procedures for improved accuracy
These services can help relieve discomfort, improve breathing and support ongoing management of chronic conditions.
Coordinated, Patient-Centered Care
At NGPG Pulmonology, our interventional pulmonology specialists use advanced technologies such as robotic-assisted bronchoscopy and endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) to diagnose and treat complex lung, airway and pleural conditions using minimally invasive techniques. These innovative approaches can help provide answers sooner, reduce recovery time, and, in some cases, avoid the need for more invasive procedures.
Our team works closely with primary care providers and specialists in thoracic surgery, oncology, radiation oncology and radiology to deliver coordinated, personalized care. From diagnosis through treatment and follow-up, we’re committed to helping patients breathe easier with expert care close to home.
To request an appointment, please call 770-219-9673.
