CK Birla Hospitals – CMRI Kolkata has launched Eastern India’s first comprehensive lung nodule evaluation and advanced management clinic, marking a significant step forward in early lung cancer detection and care. This pioneering initiative aims to transform how clinicians detect, diagnose and treat lung nodules through a streamlined, technology-driven approach.
Addressing a Growing Lung Cancer Burden in Kolkata
Kolkata continues to report one of the highest lung cancer burdens in the country. Factors such as high smoking prevalence, increasing pollution exposure and post-infection lung abnormalities have contributed to the rising incidence of lung nodules. While many nodules are benign, others represent early-stage cancers that require timely intervention. Therefore, the key clinical challenge lies in differentiating between benign and malignant nodules quickly and accurately.
Recognising this critical need, CMRI has established a dedicated one-stop clinic that integrates advanced diagnostics, navigation bronchoscopy, AI-assisted radiology and next-generation cryo-technologies to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.
AI-Assisted Risk Detection and Precision Navigation
At the core of the clinic is AI-assisted lung nodule risk detection, which enables early identification of suspicious nodules and tracks subtle changes over time. In addition, precision navigation systems—often described as a ‘GPS for the lungs’—create detailed 3D airway maps. These maps guide pulmonologists directly to deep-seated or peripheral nodules that are difficult to reach using conventional bronchoscopy techniques.
Real-Time Imaging for Accurate Targeting
To further enhance diagnostic precision, the clinic integrates real-time confirmation tools such as Radial Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) and Cone Beam CT (CBCT). These technologies provide intra-procedural, cross-sectional imaging to confirm accurate targeting before tissue sampling. As a result, diagnostic success rates improve significantly, particularly for small or hard-to-access nodules.
Expert Perspectives on a Unified Workflow
Commenting on the launch, Dr Shyam Krishnan, Interventional Pulmonologist, CK Birla Hospitals – CMRI Kolkata, said, “As incidental and screening-detected lung nodules continue to rise, patients need rapid and reliable evaluation supported by precise technology. Our clinic brings together AI-assisted interpretation, high-precision navigational bronchoscopy and cryo-techniques within a single workflow. Consequently, we reduce unnecessary surgeries, accelerate diagnosis and ensure that early cancers are detected when they are most curable.”
Dr Raja Dhar, Director and HOD, Department of Pulmonology, CK Birla Hospitals – CMRI Kolkata, added, “This initiative is a game-changer for lung cancer care in India. We can now perform navigation, CBCT confirmation, cryobiopsy and EBUS staging in one coordinated procedure, thereby saving patients weeks of uncertainty. Combining diagnosis and staging in a single session not only improves outcomes but also reduces complications and speeds up treatment. This firmly places CMRI among the most advanced lung care centres globally.”
International Recognition for Advanced Lung Care
As reported by Pharmabiz, the clinic has also drawn international attention. Dr Atul Mehta, a globally renowned Interventional Pulmonologist present at the inauguration, remarked, “The work being done at this Comprehensive Lung Nodule Clinic is truly exceptional. With state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, it stands on par with global centres of excellence.”
Redefining Early Lung Cancer Detection
Highlighting the patient-centric vision behind the initiative, Sombrata Roy, Unit Head, CK Birla Hospitals – CMRI Kolkata, said, “By combining artificial intelligence, advanced navigation and cryobiopsy within a single, coordinated system, we are redefining early lung cancer detection and treatment. Above all, this clinic reflects our belief that innovation must serve patients, accelerate diagnosis and ultimately save lives.”