What is Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS)?
Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) is a minimally invasive procedure used in pulmonology to diagnose lung conditions such as lung cancer, sarcoidosis, and other lung-related diseases. By combining bronchoscopy with ultrasound, it allows for the detailed examination of the airways, lungs, and surrounding areas.
Types of EBUS
- Radial Probe EBUS: Used primarily to visualize peripheral lung lesions for diagnosis, this method utilizes a small, rotating ultrasound probe to create a 360-degree image of the lungs.
- Linear EBUS: Commonly used for mediastinal lymph node evaluation and staging of lung cancer. It allows fine-needle aspiration (FNA) for tissue biopsy while visualizing the structures in real time.
Applications of EBUS
- Staging of Lung Cancer: Helps in assessing the spread of lung cancer to mediastinal lymph nodes.
- Diagnosis of Pulmonary Conditions: Used to diagnose lung cancer, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, and infections affecting the lymph nodes.
- Evaluation of Mediastinal Masses: Useful for determining the cause of enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes.
Procedure and Safety
- Preparation: Patients may need to fast and stop certain medications before the procedure. Local anesthesia and sedation are typically used.
- Procedure: A bronchoscope with an ultrasound probe is inserted through the mouth into the airways. Real-time images guide tissue biopsy from lymph nodes or lung lesions.
- Recovery: After the procedure, patients are monitored for any side effects. The procedure is generally safe, with rare complications like bleeding or infection.
Advantages of EBUS
- Minimally invasive with fewer complications compared to traditional methods like mediastinoscopy.
- Allows real-time imaging and precise biopsy for accurate diagnosis.
- Provides detailed evaluation of lymph nodes and lung masses without surgery.
EBUS is a critical tool in pulmonology, offering a safe and efficient way to diagnose and stage lung diseases, particularly lung cancer. Its ability to perform minimally invasive biopsies makes it an essential procedure in modern respiratory care.