Greater Manchester lung biopsy unit delivers more streamlined diagnosis with advanced imaging
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust is nearly doubling biopsy capacity in lung cancer diagnostics with a bespoke, end-to-end modular lung biopsy unit, powered by Siemens Healthineers technology. Developed at Wythenshawe Hospital to meet rising demand and support earlier detection across Greater Manchester, the service integrates a purpose-built imaging and recovery space with interventional biopsy facilities.
The lung screening service has grown substantially to meet regional needs, increasing from under 100 biopsies a year in 2014 to more than 700 annually. This expansion supports Greater Manchester’s ambition to diagnose lung cancer earlier.
“Having imaging, procedure and recovery in one place has completely reshaped the way we deliver lung biopsies,” said consultant radiologist Dr Anna Sharman. “The workflow is more efficient, our patients spend less time waiting or being moved between areas, and the imaging technology helps us target
lesions with real precision. It’s a model that is already making a significant difference to how quickly we can diagnose lung cancer, ensuring both clinical excellence and operational efficiency.”
Central to the unit’s success is Siemens Healthineers’ imaging and procedural technology. The Somatom X.Cite CT scanner delivers high resolution imaging with integrated laser guidance for precise targeting of small or hard to reach lung lesions. As part of the wider lung biopsy service, the Cios Spin mobile 2D/3D C-arm provides intraoperative imaging and immediate verification of needle placement without moving the patient. Together, these systems enable clinicians to perform more biopsies per session. The new environment is also helping train the next generation of thoracic radiologists.
Picture: Siemens Healthineers Great Britain and Ireland regional sales director Darren Buckley, consultant radiologist Dr Anna Sharman, senior CT
radiographer Juliette Hucket and Siemens Healthineers CT applications specialist Rachel Burn.
Read this report on page 36 of the May 2026 issue of RAD Magazine.
