Evaluating the effectiveness of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy for lung nodule biopsy and staging

The SEQUENCE Trial: Should Endobronchial Ultrasound QUeue bEfore or eNsuing to robotiC-assisted Bronchoscopy for pEripheral Pulmonary Nodule Biopsy? A Patient Randomized Control Trial Assessing the Effect of the Ordering of Robotic-assisted Bronchoscopy and Linear EBUS During the Same Anesthesia Event on Diagnostic Yield From Peripheral Pulmonary Nodule Biopsy

Not applicable Interventional Northwestern University · NCT06676956

This study is testing if using robotic-assisted bronchoscopy with ultrasound helps doctors better and faster diagnose lung nodules to improve treatment outcomes.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment320 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNorthwestern University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Chicago, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT06676956 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This trial investigates the diagnostic yield of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy (RaB) when combined with endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) for staging pulmonary nodules. The study aims to determine whether performing EBUS first or second during the same procedure affects the accuracy and efficiency of diagnosing lung nodules. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques like cone-beam CT (CBCT), the trial seeks to enhance the precision of needle placement during biopsies. The goal is to streamline the process from nodule discovery to treatment while maintaining high diagnostic yields.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with peripheral pulmonary nodules who are scheduled for robotic-assisted bronchoscopy.

Not a fit: Patients with enlarged or PET avid lymph nodes prior to the procedure may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more accurate diagnoses and quicker treatment for patients with pulmonary nodules.

How similar studies have performed: While there are no randomized trials directly comparing RaB and CBCT with other methods, retrospective studies have shown promising diagnostic yields.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Peripheral Pulmonary Nodule undergoing a robotic-assisted bronchoscopy

Exclusion Criteria:

* lymph nodes that are enlarged or PET avid on CT prior to procedure

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Pulmonary Nodules
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.