Johnson & Johnson MedTech (NYSE: JNJ) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared its Monarch Quest technology for robotic-assisted bronchoscopy. This latest advancement in Monarch navigation technology incorporates AI-powered algorithms and a verified OEC open interface with GE HealthCare’s OEC 3D mobile CBCT imaging system.
Last fall, Johnson & Johnson MedTech submitted the technology to the FDA for 510(k) clearance. Monarch, the first robotic-assisted bronchoscopy system to market, is designed to provide minimally invasive access to and visualization of airways, allowing clinicians to biopsy suspicious lung nodules.
The platform’s goal is to enable early and definitive diagnoses in lung cancer cases, which can help to expedite patient treatment.
According to J&J MedTech, the Monarch Quest platform enhances the system’s established reach and precision with a unique scope-in-sheath design and continuous vision. Furthermore, the software provides enhanced navigation capabilities with intraprocedural 3D imaging data, potentially increasing the accuracy of lung nodule targeting.
In addition, Monarch Quest’s AI-powered navigation utilizes the full-stack Nvidia accelerated computing platform. This increases real-time computational power by 260%, enabling the system to run complex algorithms designed to boost accuracy and confidence. About a year ago, the company established a partnership with Nvidia to use AI in surgical robotics.
The platform will also incorporate more AI capabilities for future Monarch software releases, enhancing its digital capabilities from preoperative planning through intraoperative, AI-based navigation, according to J&J MedTech.
“Our goal with the Monarch Platform is to change the treatment paradigm for diseases such as lung cancer, where significant unmet needs still remain,” said Aleksandra Popovic, president of Monarch at Johnson & Johnson MedTech. “Monarch Quest demonstrates our commitment to delivering meaningful innovation that helps clinicians advance the standard of care for their patients.”
