Lung Health Program

Interventional Pulmonology

Advanced Procedures and Services

Our specialists offer a range of advanced interventional pulmonary services designed to help diagnose and treat conditions affecting the lungs, airways, and the space surrounding the lungs.

Bronchoscopic Procedures

Bronchoscopic procedures allow our specialists to examine the lungs and airways using a thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope. These minimally invasive procedures can help identify abnormal areas, collect tissue samplbrones, and diagnose lung conditions.

• Diagnostic Bronchoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that allows a physician to examine the airways and collect samples when needed to help diagnose lung or airway conditions.
• Robotic Bronchoscopy: An advanced technique that uses robotic technology to help physicians reach and evaluate small or difficult-to-access areas of the lungs, including lung nodules.
• Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS): A specialized bronchoscopy procedure that combines a bronchoscope with ultrasound to examine structures and lymph nodes near the airways and collect tissue samples when needed.

Therapeutic Bronchoscopy

Therapeutic bronchoscopy includes minimally invasive procedures used to treat problems within the airways. These treatments may help open narrowed or blocked airways and improve airflow and breathing.

• Rigid Bronchoscopy: A procedure that uses a specialized bronchoscope to access the airway and perform treatments for certain airway conditions, including narrowing or obstruction.
• Laser Therapy: A treatment that uses laser energy during bronchoscopy to remove or reduce abnormal tissue that may be blocking an airway.
• Airway Stent Placement: A procedure in which a small tube, called a stent, is placed inside a narrowed or blocked airway to help keep it open and improve airflow.

Pleural Procedures

Pleural procedures are used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the pleural space, which is the area between the lungs and the chest wall. These procedures can help evaluate or remove excess fluid and identify the cause of pleural conditions.

• Thoracentesis: A procedure that uses a needle or small tube to remove excess fluid from around the lungs. The fluid may also be tested to help determine what is causing the buildup.
• Indwelling Pleural Catheter Placement: Placement of a small catheter that allows recurring fluid around the lungs to be drained over time, helping relieve symptoms such as shortness of breath.
• Medical Thoracoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that allows a physician to examine the pleural space and obtain tissue samples when needed for diagnosis.

Additional Pleural Services

Our team also provides additional services to identify the cause of pleural conditions, manage recurring problems, and coordinate appropriate follow-up care.

• Diagnostic Evaluation: A comprehensive assessment that may include reviewing symptoms, medical history, imaging, and test results to determine the cause of a pleural or pulmonary condition and recommend appropriate next steps.
• Pleurodesis: A procedure used to help prevent fluid or air from repeatedly building up around the lung by sealing the space between the lung and chest wall.
• Care Coordination and Follow-Up Planning: Our team works with patients and their other healthcare providers to coordinate treatment, follow-up care, and additional services based on each patient's needs.

Patient Referral Pathway

Patients may be referred by primary care providers, oncology specialists, emergency department providers, the Lung Screening Program, or other pulmonary care teams.

After a referral is received, patients are evaluated by an interventional pulmonologist. The evaluation may include a review of symptoms, imaging, medical history, and the need for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.

Why Choose UI Health Interventional Pulmonology?

• Rapid access to specialized pulmonary evaluation
• Minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment options
• Advanced bronchoscopy and pleural procedures
• Coordinated care with oncology, pulmonology, emergency medicine, and primary care teams
• Individualized treatment planning focused on patient needs

Our Location

Outpatient Care Center, Suite 3C
1801 W. Taylor St.
Chicago, IL 60612

Make an Appointment with the Interventional Pulmonology Program

Click here to make an appointment with our Interventional Pulmonology Program, or call 312.996.3300.