Pulmonology

Missouri Delta Pulmonology

Breathing is vital to our overall health, with each of us taking approximately 20,000 breaths a day. At Missouri Delta Pulmonology, we understand the critical role that lung health plays in your well-being. Dr. Muhammad Ehtisham, a Fellowship-trained pulmonologist, is here to help you breathe easier by diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of pulmonary conditions.

Dr. Ehtisham is board-certified in pulmonary medicine, critical care medicine, and advanced diagnostic bronchoscopy. He brings expertise to the management of conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung disease, lung cancer, respiratory infections, and sleep apnea.

Pioneering Lung Cancer Detection in Southeast Missouri

Lung cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, surpassing breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined (Lung Cancer Alliance Data). Missouri Delta Medical Center is proud to be at the forefront of lung cancer detection in Southeast Missouri, offering the latest in diagnostic technology with the introduction of the Ion Endoluminal System.

The Ion system addresses one of the most challenging aspects of lung biopsies: obtaining tissue samples from deep within the lungs. This advanced technology features an ultra-thin, highly maneuverable catheter that allows for precise navigation into the peripheral lung. Compared to traditional manual techniques, the Ion system offers enhanced stability, enabling us to access hard-to-reach areas with greater ease and accuracy.

"More than 70% of cancerous lung nodules are located at the outer edges of the lungs, often making them inaccessible for biopsy. Thanks to the Ion system, we are now able to reach these hard-to-access nodules and biopsy lesions as small as 5mm."
— Dr. Muhammad Ehtisham, M.D., Pulmonologist, Missouri Delta Medical Center

Introducing Ion by Intuitive: Revolutionizing Lung Biopsies

Ion by Intuitive is a cutting-edge, robotic-assisted system that allows for minimally invasive lung biopsies, leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. This state-of-the-art technology integrates seamlessly with existing tools like Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS), which Missouri Delta Medical Center also employs.

By combining the precision of robotic-assisted technology with the capabilities of EBUS, the Ion system enables our pulmonology team to diagnose and stage lung cancer in a single procedure. This approach enhances diagnostic accuracy, improves patient outcomes, and helps us provide the highest level of care possible for those facing lung health challenges.

At Missouri Delta Pulmonology, we are committed to pioneering innovative diagnostic techniques and providing exceptional care to help you breathe easier and live healthier.