Table 1.
Comparison of the technical aspects of the two platforms.
| Platform | MonarchTM (Auris Robotics) | IonTM (Intuitive Surgical) |
|---|---|---|
| Bronchoscope system | Telescopic mother-daughter configuration: 6.0 mm outer sheath and 4.2 mm inner scope | Articulating catheter: 3.5 mm outer diameter with a thin 1.8 mm removable visual probe |
| Working channel | 2.1 mm | 2.0 mm |
| Guidance technology | Electromagnetic navigation + peripheral vision | Fiberoptic shape-sensing + peripheral navigation |
| Contributing technologies | CT, EMN, rEBUS, live views, fluoroscopy | CT, rEBUS, live views, fluoroscopy |
| Controller | Two joysticks, buttons for irrigation, aspiration etc. | Trackball and scroll wheel |
| Steering | 4-way steering control with 180-degree deflection either way | 180-degree articulation either way |
| Stability | Sheath and scope assembly locks in position during biopsy | Active robotic-controlled catheter locks in position during biopsy |
| Biopsy tools | Auris needle (currently recalled); other needles, forceps, brushes | Flexision (Intuitive) needle; other needles, forceps, brushes |
| Caution | Not recommended in those with IEDs (pacemaker, ICD); risk of interference | No such limitations advised |