Known as electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy, a new type of bronchoscopy uses global positioning-like technology to provide physicians with three-dimensional images of the far reaches of complex lung structures, according to Texas Health Resources.

The new system uses a steerable catheter that can also access and biopsy lymph nodes near the bronchial tree or trachea.

Pulmonologists at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas, who have been using this procedure, expect it to help better diagnose lung cancer, pneumonia, and various pulmonary infections because of their newfound ability to see safely and clearly into the deep regions of the lungs.