St. Helena Hospital Celebrates 100th Robotic Bronchoscopy Procedure

Innovative technology enhances early lung cancer detection and improves patient outcomes

At St. Helena Hospital, we are committed to advancing lung care and we are proud to mark a significant milestone—the completion of our 100th robotic bronchoscopy procedure on March 18, 2025. As one of the few hospitals in Northern California offering this cutting-edge technology, we continue to provide patients with earlier detection and improved outcomes in the fight against lung disease.

Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy allows for unparalleled precision in navigating the lungs, enabling our expert team to biopsy small or hard-to-reach nodules with minimal invasiveness. This advanced approach leads to faster diagnoses, earlier intervention, and improved survival rates—transforming the landscape of lung cancer care.

“In just 22 months, we have performed 100 robotic bronchoscopy procedures—each one a potential lifesaver.”
— Dr. Kiran Ubhayakar, Pulmonologist & Interventional Bronchoscopy Specialist

Dr. Ubhayakar and the surgical team at St. Helena Hospital are at the forefront of using robotic-assisted bronchoscopy to provide life-saving diagnoses. With lung cancer often detected in later stages, this technology offers hope by identifying cancer when treatment is most effective.

“Our hospital’s leadership in lung care is driven by a dedicated, multidisciplinary team,” said Dr. Steven Herber, President of St. Helena Hospital. “Through the support of our community and hospital foundation, we continue to invest in state-of-the-art technology, ensuring our patients receive the best possible care.”

St. Helena Hospital Foundation and RockOut KnockOut Cancer supporters made our Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy system a reality. Their unwavering commitment to early cancer detection is transforming lives in our community.

This milestone reflects the dedication of our multidisciplinary lung program, which brings together pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, oncologists, and respiratory specialists to provide a comprehensive, patient-centered approach. By integrating expertise with the latest technology, St. Helena Hospital continues to lead the way in advanced lung care, ensuring patients receive the most accurate diagnoses and effective treatments available.

To learn more about Dr. Ubhayakar or to schedule a consultation, call 707-967-7551 or visit AdventistHealth.org/KUbhayakar.

Top: Dr. Kiran Ubhayakar, Forest O’Neill (Rad Tech), Dr. Nitesh Mody (Anesthesia), Julie Perez (Surgical Tech), Paul Gaitlin (SPD Tech), Dr. Anthony Victorio (Pathology), Kristy Thompson (Perioperative Director) Bottom: Jen Finch (CRNA), Lorinda Smith (Surgical Nurse)