Interventional Pulmonology at the University of Utah: Advancing Minimally-Invasive Diagnostics
The Interventional Pulmonology (IP) program was established at the University of Utah in 2008 to create a unique program incorporating advanced technologies for lung cancer management. A vast majority of patients referred to the university now undergo minimally-invasive procedures in an out-patient setting to diagnose and stage lung cancers. Our physicians routinely use cutting-edge methods like bronchoscopy with electromagnetic navigation to sample small, peripheral lung lesions that were not capable of being biopsied in the past.
IP physicians are an integral part of the thoracic oncology service at Huntsman Cancer Hospital and provide both out-patient and in-patient consultation services. IP physicians work closely with ENT surgeons in managing complex airway obstructions. Our clinic is streamlined to expedite new referrals and complete diagnostic and staging procedures within two weeks, thus successfully minimizing wait times from referral to treatment decisions for new lung cancer patients.
In addition to supporting the rapid diagnosis and staging of lung cancer, the IP service manages late-stage complications of cancer. For example, the IP service runs a dedicated clinic for management of pleural effusions, which can otherwise be debilitating to patients. The IP team at the University has been instrumental in standardizing the management of malignant pleural effusions and the development of national guidelines.
Currently, the IP service accepts referrals for patients with the following conditions:
- Newly diagnosed lung lesions that are concerning for cancer
- Thoracic lymphadenopathy – diagnosis or staging cancers
- Airway obstruction
- Unknown or malignant pleural effusions
- Malignant ascites
- Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction for emphysema
- Bronchial thermoplasty for asthma
To refer a patient, please call our new patient number at 801-646-4600