Lung Nodule Program

The Lung Nodule Program at TriHealth brings together the physician experts and tests needed to deliver convenient, all-inclusive care for patients with lung nodules, all in theconvenience of the Bethesda North Outpatient Imaging building and Group Health Pulmonology in Clifton next to Good Samaritan Hospital.

About Lung Nodules

A lung nodule (also called a pulmonary nodule) is a round- or oval-shaped mass in the lungs. They are usually discovered on a chest x-ray or CT scan performed for some other reason.They are often present for years before they are discovered, but may need to be monitored closely to determine whether or not they are cancerous.

Pulmonary nodules usually are not cancerous. However, in some cases they can be an early stage cancer. Most nodules should be considered potentially cancerous until provenotherwise.

Non-cancerous nodules have many causes, including old scars and infections. While a lung nodule may not be anything to worry about, it should not be ignored.

Initial Evaluations Include:

• Evaluation by a Nurse Navigator
• Assessment by a Pulmonologist (lung specialist)
• May require a diagnostic imaging be completed along with a breathing test
• Develop a plan for follow-up or treatment

Ongoing Monitoring

For some patients, a periodic series of CT scans to re-check the size of the nodule will be recommended. A growing nodule can indicate a possible cancer, which can be detected onlythrough ongoing monitoring. If the patient is at high risk for lung cancer or if the appearance of the nodule on the CT scan suggests that it is cancerous, further testing or immediatetreatment may be recommended.

We Accept Most Insurance Plans

We accept most insurance plans, and physician referral is not required.

Hallmarks of Our Lung Nodule Program:

• Prompt scheduling of initial visit
• On-site CT with same day interpretation
• Timely assessment, diagnosis and recommendations
• Management of follow-up visits
• Coordination of care with multiple specialists
• Ongoing communication with referring physicians
• Patient education

Each patient receives complete testing and consultation with a physician to determine the best course of action for them, all in one visit. This simplifies things for our patientswhile maximizing early detection of disease and minimizing unnecessary medical or surgical procedures.

For some patients, biopsy by means of the Ion Robot may be an option for diagnosis. To learn more about the Ion Robot, click here.

For More Information

If you have been diagnosed with a lung nodule and would like to speak to the Nurse Navigator, please call the Lung Nodule Clinic at 513 865 1145.