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Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) in Pulmonology

Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) in Pulmonology

EBUS Procedure

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.