T. Glen Bouder, MD, Completes 500th Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy Case

Valley Health is proud to announce a major milestone in its fight against lung cancer: Dr. T. Glen Bouder completed his 500th Ion robotic bronchoscopy case. This achievement marks a significant step forward in the early detection and treatment of lung cancer, reinforcing Valley Health’s commitment to innovation and excellence in patient care.

The Ion robotic bronchoscopy system allows physicians to reach and biopsy small, hard-to-access nodules deep within the lungs with unprecedented precision. This minimally invasive technology enhances diagnostic accuracy while reducing risks for patients, enabling earlier intervention and better outcomes.

Dr. Bouder, a pulmonary and critical care specialist at Valley Health, is also the first physician in Virginia to use Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) ablation to target tumors in the lungs. He completed the first case in February of this year. This groundbreaking procedure was performed using a novel technology that delivers high-voltage, short-duration electrical pulses to destroy cancer cells through non-thermal mechanisms.

Unlike traditional thermal ablation, which uses heat to destroy tissue, PEF ablation preserves surrounding healthy tissue and minimizes complications such as bleeding or lung collapse. The procedure also holds promise for stimulating the body’s immune response, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of other cancer therapies.

Dr. Bouder’s pioneering use of PEF ablation, combined with the precision of Ion robotic bronchoscopy, offers hope to patients in our community facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

As Valley Health continues to lead in advanced diagnostics and treatment, these milestones underscore the organization’s dedication to transforming cancer care and improving lives across the region.