FAST Evaluation of Nodules & Other Abnormalities in the Lungs
For the best outcome when a lung nodule is found, it’s important to act quickly. Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center created the Follow-Up ASsessmenT of Lung Nodules (FAST) Clinic for this purpose—to find, diagnose and treat lung nodules as rapidly as possible. Using a specially outfitted robotic bronchoscopy suite, our team can evaluate and decide on next steps for lung nodules at record speed.
Through quick and early action after seeing an abnormality in the lung and the use of leading-edge technology, the FAST Clinic is transforming care and patient outcomes at Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center.
What Is a Lung Nodule?
A lung nodule is a lump, growth or “spot” that appears on imaging studies of the chest, such as an X-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan. Sometimes, a lung nodule can be discovered unexpectedly during imaging being done for a different reason––this is known as an "incidental finding.”
There can be one or more nodules, and several reasons why they can develop, including inflammation in the lungs, clumping of abnormal blood vessels, benign (noncancerous) growths and cancerous tumors that started in the lung or traveled to the lung from another part of the body (metastasized).
When inflammation or infection causes a lung nodule, it will typically go away with medicine. But when it’s unclear what caused the nodule, it’s important to investigate.
Why Robotic Bronchoscopy for Finding & Treating Lung Nodules?
Our Comprehensive Cancer Center’s advanced robotic bronchoscopy suite enables doctors to remove tiny lung tissue samples to biopsy, examining them in a lab for cancer cells or other abnormalities. Our surgeons can examine lung nodules as small as 4mm (about 1/8 inch) in minimally invasive (less intrusive) ways by using high-tech equipment and software to maneuver tiny tools deep into the airways with real-time 2D and 3D visualization.
Our surgeons can quickly assess the situation and determine if a biopsy or other procedure is needed.
Using a robot in these situations is effective because it’s safer and more accurate than other chest biopsy methods, with more than 90% accuracy, well above the national average for other approaches.
How Quickly Does the FAST Clinic See Patients?
When doctors see a lung nodule on a chest X-ray or other imaging test at Montefiore Einstein, the system is designed to alert the FAST Clinic team right away.
The goal is to schedule patients for outpatient follow-up visits within two to four weeks.
Sometimes the FAST Clinic performs same-day diagnosis and treatment for lung nodules, locating and removing the abnormality in a single procedure. This approach is especially beneficial for patients who might otherwise require multiple hospital visits.