Scarborough Health Network (SHN) has reached a major milestone with the successful completion of its first surgery using the Medtronic StealthStation™ FlexENT Navigation System—a donor-funded, state-of-the-art technology that enhances precision, safety, and outcomes in endoscopic sinus and skull-base surgery.

For patients living with chronic sinus conditions, nasal polyps, or other complex ENT issues, surgery can be delicate and high-risk. The sinuses are located close to the eyes, brain, and major nerves—where even a millimeter of error can have serious consequences. Acting like a GPS for surgeons, the StealthStation™ FlexENT provides real-time, image-guided navigation that allows for safer and more precise procedures.

“This technology allows us to operate with much greater confidence and precision,” says Dr. Michael Chang, Division Lead for Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at SHN. “Patients will benefit from safer surgeries, faster recoveries, and better long-term outcomes.”

With this advancement, Scarborough patients no longer need to travel outside their community for access to leading-edge surgical technology. The system supports a wide range of procedures, including challenging sinonasal biopsies for sinonasal cancers, nasal polyp removal, and complex sinus and skull-base surgeries near critical structures such as the carotid artery and optic nerve.

During SHN’s first case on July 18, 2025, patient Jaesun Joe underwent successful endoscopic sinus surgery performed by Dr. Michael Chang with anesthesia support from Dr. Liz Hartley. The FlexENT system guided the surgical team through the complex sinus anatomy, enabling safe and accurate removal of nasal polyps.

The acquisition and its first successful use were made possible thanks to the generosity of SHN’s donor community. This includes support from SHN Foundation Board Member Sandy Zheng, the family of the late Dr. David Naiberg (former Chief of Otolaryngology at the legacy Scarborough Hospital), the Dr. David and Sharon Naiberg Health Innovation Fund in Otolaryngology, Jim Christine, Christina Ong, and many donors who continue to transform local healthcare for Scarborough.

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