J&J MedTech Has Positive Data for Monarch Robotic Bronchoscopy

Johnson & Johnson MedTech has published results for its Monarch robotic-assisted bronchoscopy platform in the CHEST journal.

The TARGET (Transbronchial Biopsy Assisted by Robotic Guidance in the Evaluation of Tumors in the Lung) study showed clinicians could reach small, peripherally located lung nodules in over 98% of cases using Monarch. They could also biopsy the nodules with a safety profile comparable to bronchoscopy techniques that are non-robotic.

The study followed 679 patients in 21 clinical sites in the U.S., Canada, and Hong Kong for at least one year. It was designed to measure clinical safety, navigation success and diagnostic yield across a broad range of patients in a real-world setting.

The robotically-guided Monarch bronchoscope reached the lesion in 98.7% of cases, with diagnostic yield of 83.2%.

Investigators also highlighted learnings concerning variables that were significantly associated with higher diagnostic yield. This included history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)/emphysema and presence of a bronchus sign. Investigators continuing to explore these areas, analyzing and reporting data related to patient stature/height, subsolid nodules, atypical cells, and performance of biopsy tools in RAB. The results are intended for presentation and publication.

“Contributing to the body of evidence for emerging technology, especially as a non-university, community tertiary care hospital, is an important part of advancing healthcare, and I am proud to have been part of the TARGET study,” said Dr. Faisal Khan, one of the TARGET study investigators and currently Medical Director, Interventional Pulmonary & Endoscopy, at Franciscan Hospital in Indianapolis, Ind. “The results of this important study can help raise awareness of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy as a safe, effective option for physicians to raise the standard of care for patients.”

J&J MedTech touts Monarch as the first robotically assisted bronchoscopy system on the market. Earlier this year, the system won an FDA nod for Monarch Quest, which features artificial intelligence (AI)-powered algorithms and a verified OEC Open interface with GE HealthCare’s OEC 3D mobile CBCT imaging system.

“Johnson & Johnson is committed to generating evidence that demonstrates the safety and efficacy of our products and advances innovation in areas with significant unmet needs,” said Dr. Ray Fryrear, Vice President of Scientific Affairs for Robotics and Digital at Johnson & Johnson MedTech. “As the pioneers in the field of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy, we are committed to evolving its potential to change the way clinicians diagnose and treat lung cancer.”