Interventional pulmonology clinic at St. Mary Medical Center ensures swift treatment of lung cancer

When it comes to lung cancer, timing can mean the difference between life and death. The disease can spread within weeks to the brain, bones and liver, making it far more difficult to treat. Yet many individuals—especially non-smokers—don’t realize they have lung cancer until it’s advanced.

This is where St. Mary Medical Center’s new interventional pulmonology clinic comes in. Brought to Bucks County by Nina Maouelainin, DO—one of the first providers in the U.S. to specialize in this growing field—the clinic helps ensure no patient with potential lung disease falls through the cracks.

At St. Mary, Dr. Maouelainin leads a multidisciplinary team that includes a lung navigator, respiratory therapist, clinical research nurse and oncologists. Working closely with the hospital’s radiology department, the group reviews imaging reports to identify lung abnormalities that might otherwise be missed.

For example, a patient may undergo a CAT scan for an unrelated issue, such as a kidney stone. While the scan might capture a lung nodule, it may not be emphasized in the final impression. If it isn’t highlighted, a small but concerning finding could be overlooked—and in lung cancer, timing is critical.

“Lung cancer and lung nodules cannot wait weeks for the next follow up. We need to act urgently. Whenever lung nodules are 8mm or 10mm, they need to be seen within that week because that can make a difference between a cure and chronic disease or even death,” says Dr. Maouelainin. “Anybody that has a 20mm lesion and above are seen, evaluated and biopsied within seven to 10 days.”

The clinic is open to patients every Friday and Dr. Maouelainin performs procedures at the hospital every Wednesday, though her team is available for calls, texts and virtual consultations Monday through Friday.

“Lung cancer and lung nodules cannot wait weeks for the next follow up. We need to act urgently. Whenever lung nodules are 8mm or 10mm, they need to be seen within that week because that can make a difference between a cure and chronic disease or even death. ” – Dr. Maouelainin

“Whenever there’s anything that is concerning, we’re there to help. We want to be a voice for the community because lung cancer is the No. 1 killer in men and women worldwide against all other cancers combined,” says Dr. Maouelainin. “And, unfortunately, there’s a negative stigma that people did it to themselves because they smoked. The fact is many are non-smokers. Education and information are key, and advocating for yourself is paramount.”

The interventional pulmonology clinic at St. Mary Medical Center is located in the Franciscan Building, Suite 411. Contact 267-500-5027 for more information.