Piedmont Mountainside expands pulmonary care with new robotic-assisted bronchoscopy technology

Jasper, Ga. (September 11, 2026) – Piedmont Mountainside Hospital has expanded access to advanced pulmonary care with the addition of the Galaxy System™ by Noah Medical, an innovative robotic-assisted bronchoscopy platform designed to help physicians diagnose and evaluate lung nodules with greater precision while bringing specialized care closer to home. The announcement follows Piedmont Mountainside's continued investment in advanced technologies that enhance patient care and expand access to services across North Georgia.

The Galaxy System enables physicians to reach and biopsy small, difficult-to-access lung nodules, including those near the outer edges of the lungs. By combining robotic navigation with advanced imaging technology, the platform supports earlier and more accurate diagnosis of lung cancer and other pulmonary conditions, allowing patients to begin appropriate treatment sooner.

"The addition of this advanced technology represents another important step in our commitment to providing exceptional, patient-centered care close to home," said Denise Ray, Chief Executive Officer of Piedmont Mountainside Hospital. "Patients throughout North Georgia deserve access to leading-edge diagnostic and treatment options without having to travel far from their families and support systems. The Galaxy System allows us to provide that level of care right here in our community."

The acquisition was made possible through the collaborative efforts of hospital leadership and clinical teams dedicated to advancing pulmonary services at Piedmont Mountainside.

A key feature of the Galaxy System is its integration of tomosynthesis and augmented fluoroscopy technologies. Tomosynthesis uses multiple low-dose X-ray images to create detailed three-dimensional views of the lungs, while augmented fluoroscopy provides enhanced real-time imaging that helps physicians accurately navigate to targeted lung nodules during procedures.

Together, these technologies help account for changes in lung position during a procedure and allow physicians to confirm biopsy instrument placement before collecting tissue samples. This enhanced precision improves physicians' ability to evaluate small and hard-to-reach nodules and obtain the information needed for diagnosis, staging and treatment planning.

"Earlier detection and diagnosis are critical in the fight against lung cancer," said Richard Hedelius, DO. "This technology gives us the ability to access and evaluate lung nodules that may have been more challenging to reach in the past, helping ensure patients receive timely and accurate diagnoses."

The expansion of advanced pulmonary services reflects Piedmont Mountainside's ongoing commitment to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves. By investing in innovative technology and specialized services, the hospital continues to strengthen access to high-quality care throughout the region.

Community leaders have also recognized the impact of bringing advanced health care services closer to home. State Representative Rick Jasperse joined Piedmont Mountainside physicians, leaders and staff during the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the arrival of the new technology and remained actively engaged throughout the process.

"Piedmont is committed to making a positive difference in every life we touch," said Ray. "Investments like the Galaxy System are living examples of the Piedmont Promise in action, ensuring our patients have access to advanced, compassionate care delivered close to home by the people they know and trust."

With the addition of robotic-assisted bronchoscopy, Piedmont Mountainside continues to advance its pulmonary program and expand access to specialized care for patients across North Georgia, reinforcing its mission to make a positive difference in every life it touches.