STING: Robotic lung cancer biopsies designed for the clinical workflow
Developing and validating a CT-guided system to improve accuracy of lung cancer biopsies
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. To improve early diagnosis and treatment, Syntric Medical and RadboudUMC have joined forces in a public-private partnership to develop an innovative needle-positioning system for lung biopsies. This system will help interventional radiologists precisely position biopsy needles during a patient’s breathing cycle while inside a CT scanner. The collaboration will advance the current proof-of-concept to a clinically validated prototype, ready for the next step towards patient care.
Lung cancer causes over 260,000 deaths annually in Europe and 1.8 million worldwide. One major challenge is that biopsies - needed to confirm cancer type and guide treatment - are less accurate at early stages, with success rates dropping from 96% to as low as 52%. Early and precise biopsies are essential for timely treatment, which can significantly improve survival rates. Failure to obtain adequate biopsy samples leads to delayed diagnoses, repeated procedures, higher healthcare costs, and worse patient outcomes. Innovative solutions are urgently needed to make early-stage biopsies more reliable and accessible.
The patented system will be used inside the CT scanner to place needles with high accuracy, while allowing radiologists to control it remotely. This prevents unnecessary radiation exposure for staff and ensures imaging can be used directly to guide needle placement. The project will refine the technology, validate it in CT imaging environments, and integrate it into hospital workflows. User needs and clinical requirements will be identified in close consultation with medical professionals.
By the end of the project, the system will reach TRL 5, with preclinical validation completed through simulations, usability studies, and pilot animal trials. A clear list of technical requirements, clinical features, and a market entry strategy will be available, paving the way for clinical trials and ultimately improving lung cancer care.
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