Johnson & Johnson Debuts Monarch Platform in Middle East

Johnson & Johnson celebrated the first robotically-assisted bronchoscopy case in the Middle East using its Monarch platform. The procedure occurred at the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

In another first for the region, the case also featured Monarch Quest. The surgical navigation technology boasts AI-powered algorithms engineered to improve user experience and integrate with a variety of mobile and fixed advanced imaging systems, according to J&J.

The company believes the ability to reach and biopsy lung nodules at an earlier stage with tools like Monarch can be a significant leap for interventional care. The platform enables minimally invasive, robotically assisted biopsy of peripheral lung nodules that are difficult to reach with traditional bronchoscopy, helping speed lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Monarch Quest builds on the platform’s stable reach and precision with a scope-in-sheath design, continuous visualization, and enhanced navigation that integrates intraprocedural 3D imaging to improve lung nodule targeting. The navigation tech, FDA cleared in 2025, features AI-powered algorithms and a verified OEC Open interface with GE HealthCare’s OEC 3D mobile CBCT imaging system.

Comments from Johnson & Johnson and clinicians

Aleksandra Popovic, president, MONARCH, MedTech, Johnson & Johnson: “As the company that pioneered the first robotic bronchoscopy platform, we are proud to be bringing this technology to clinicians in a new region of the world. We are committed to advancing the standard of care in lung cancer by increasing access to meaningful innovation that helps improve outcomes for patients around the world.”

Dr. Zaid Zoumot, interventional pulmonologist and division chair, Pulmonary Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi: “Robotically-assisted bronchoscopy represents a breakthrough in how we detect and diagnose lung disease. With this technology, we can reach small lesions in all segments of the lung, which creates the opportunity to accelerate treatment decisions.”