Department of Chest Medicine

The Department of Chest Medicine at Taipei Veterans General Hospital (VGHTPE) was founded in December 1962 to replace the former Tuberculosis Department. It consists of five divisions: Respiratory Therapy, General Chest Medicine, Pulmonary Immunology & Infectious Disease, Thoracic Oncology, and Clinical Respiratory Physiology.

This department is renowned for its exceptional care, innovative research, and commitment to patient well-being. Their comprehensive approach to respiratory health and their expertise in managing complex conditions set them apart.

Their pioneering research initiatives have significantly advanced the understanding and treatment of respiratory diseases. Their work, frequently published in esteemed medical journals, has garnered international recognition.

The department's commitment to patient-centered care is exemplary. The multidisciplinary team collaboratively tailors treatment plans to address the individual needs and concerns of their patients.

Key highlights include :

1.     The Therapeutical and Research Center of Lung Tumor heavily leverages artificial intelligence (AI) for early lung cancer detection. The department owns an on-site cytology room for swift, effective diagnoses following interventional procedures. The research team tailors treatment plans with a comprehensive array of therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and cutting-edge Heavy Ion Therapy.

2.     The Respiratory Infection research team is at the forefront of non-tuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM) management nationally. The team is also the pioneers in Taiwan, operating a P3 lab for conducting live MTB infection studies in cellular models.

3.     Regarding Airway Diseases, the department offers extensive pulmonary function testing, notably a high volume of impulse oscillometry for small airway assessment. The research, rich in clinical data and experimental models, positions the team as leaders in national and international studies on asthma and COPD.

4.     The Sleep Center works closely with industry partners to innovate screening tools for obstructive sleep apnea and maintains a state-of-the-art lab for groundbreaking translational research.

5.     All research teams are actively engaged in a multitude of clinical trials, both nationwide and international, focusing on novel lung cancer treatments, critical care medicine, severe asthma (through the International Severe Asthma Registry, ISAR), COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis.

6.     Many of the faculty members hold chair or leadership positions in national societies and international associations, reflecting the department's influence and commitment to advancing respiratory medicine.