AVMC Addresses Lung Cancer in the Antelope Valley

Antelope Valley Medical Center invests in life-enhancing technology to provide cancer care solutions.

(LANCASTER, Calif., March 17, 2025) — Antelope Valley Medical Center is pleased to announce the recent addition of an innovative robotic-assisted platform to perform minimally invasive lung biopsy procedures. This new technology enables physicians to obtain tissue samples that may facilitate a quicker diagnosis for patients.

"Utilizing this advanced technology marks a significant advancement in our diagnostic capabilities. This elevates the standard of care in our community,” said Syed Ahmed, MD, Pulmonologist at Antelope Valley Medical Center.

The Ion Endoluminal technology, made by Intuitive represents an advancement in the existing approaches to lung biopsy. The system enables physicians to obtain tissue samples from deep within the lung, addressing a challenging aspect of lung biopsy. In general, when a definitive diagnosis is obtained through a biopsy procedure, patients may avoid subsequent biopsies.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Locally, the lung cancer mortality rate is higher than the rest of Los Angeles County, highlighting a critical health concern in the Antelope Valley. A ray of hope is that when diagnosed at the earliest stage, the average 5-year survival rate is 92%. Early-stage diagnosis can be difficult, but using this technology may help obtain samples for potential diagnosis.

“We recognize the alarming impact of lung cancer in our community,” said Antelope Valley Medical Center Chief Executive Officer, Edward Mirzabegian. “This investment demonstrates clear value for early detection and timely treatment, which ultimately saves lives and improves patient outcomes.”

Antelope Valley Medical Center’s commitment remains steadfast in providing innovative, high-quality care that meets the needs of the community. This latest investment offers patients the best possible chance of a healthier future.

We encourage community members to speak directly with their primary care physicians with questions or to schedule a patient consultation.

To learn more about the Bronchoscopy procedure, please visit www.avmc.org/services/oncology/cancer-treatment-options/

Pictured: Dr. Syed Ahmed performs one of Antelope Valley Medical Center’s first robotic bronchoscopy procedures.

Pictured: Antelope Valley Medical Center recently invested in life-enhancing technology, the Intuitive Ion System to provide cancer care solutions.

About Antelope Valley Medical Center

Antelope Valley Medical Center (AVMC) is the leading hospital in the heart of the Antelope Valley, delivering high-quality, compassionate healthcare to the community since 1955. As a 420-bed, full-service, acute-care hospital, AVMC offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, advanced surgical procedures, maternity and neonatal care, cardiovascular care, and the region’s only trauma center, pediatric and inpatient behavioral health unit. With a focus on innovation and compassionate care, AVMC is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves. For more information, visit www.avmc.org, call (661) 949-5000, or follow us at @avmedicalcenter.