Ballad Health adds Ion robotic surgery units to Bristol Regional, Holston Valley Medical Centers, expanding robotic surgery capabilities for lung cancer detection

Ballad Health continues to lead in advanced surgical care with the addition of Ion robotic-assisted surgery systems at Bristol Regional Medical Center and Holston Valley Medical Center.

The Ion system represents a groundbreaking platform for minimally invasive lung biopsies, empowering physicians to detect lung cancer sooner through a more precise approach. This innovative technology uses an ultra-thin, highly maneuverable robotic catheter to navigate previously unreachable parts of the lung and retrieve tissue samples for analysis. Leveraging CT scan data, the Ion system generates a 3D image of the patient’s lungs, mapping out intricate branches and nodules for more targeted biopsies.

“Introducing the Ion robotic surgery platform at Bristol Regional Medical Center marks another step forward in our mission to bring the highest level of healthcare innovation to our community,” said John Jeter, CEO of Bristol Regional Medical Center and Johnston Memorial Hospital.

“With lung cancer as a leading cause of cancer death, early detection is crucial, and this technology allows our skilled team to biopsy areas of the lung that were previously inaccessible. This addition doesn’t just elevate our capabilities — it represents our promise to deliver more comprehensive, minimally invasive care close to home. By investing in robotic surgery, we’re equipping our physicians with advanced tools to enhance precision, reduce recovery time and ultimately, improve quality of life for our patients.”

With the Ion system already in place at Johnson City Medical Center and Johnston Memorial Hospital, Ballad Health is enhancing its commitment to early cancer detection across the Appalachian Highlands. The health system is also investing in a comprehensive robotics training program for new and incoming surgeons, enabling them to master the latest advancements in robotic-assisted surgery and optimize patient outcomes.

This latest addition of Ion further complements Ballad Health’s long-standing use of Da Vinci robotic systems, which have been integral to the organization since 2008, contributing to more than 16,000 procedures across multiple specialties, including general, orthopedic, urological and gynecologic surgeries.

Rebecca Beck, CEO of Holston Valley and Indian Path Community Hospital, expressed enthusiasm about adding the Ion system to Holston Valley.

“The addition of Ion at Holston Valley reinforces our commitment to providing the highest quality of care for our patients, and it underscores Ballad Health’s dedication to investing in lifesaving technologies,” Beck said. “Our expanded robotic surgery capabilities are about delivering the best outcomes, and that starts with providing physicians with the most advanced tools to detect diseases like lung cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage. This investment aligns with our mission to offer our community access to transformative healthcare technologies and innovative treatment options.”

Alongside the Ion systems, Ballad Health has also enhanced its Da Vinci robotic surgery fleet with 13 Da Vincis being offered across the Ballad Health system. Bristol Regional Medical Center now operates three Da Vinci systems, while Holston Valley Medical Center has two of these versatile units, all of which have transformed surgical procedures by increasing precision, reducing post-surgery pain and promoting faster recoveries.

“As Ballad Health continues to expand its robotic surgery program, we remain focused on equipping its teams with advanced training and technology to elevate the standard of care across the Appalachian Highlands,” said Dr. Chad Couch, president of Ballad Health’s Northern Region.

“Expanding access to these services is not only beneficial to patients in Kingsport and Bristol, but patients in neighboring communities will now gain access to the Ion surgical system, giving them the ability to choose the best option for their care alongside their doctor and care team.”