Endobronchial Ultrasound

Endobronchial Ultrasound

Endobronchial Ultrasound is a minimally invasive procedure which helps the doctors to see the structures inside of the lungs and chest without surgery. It also allows the doctor to take samples from the areas to test for conditions like lung cancer, tuberculosis, lymphoma, or infections. It combines a bronchoscope with an ultrasound probe to get the clear image of:

  • Lymph nodes
  • Tumors
  • Masses or swollen areas near the windpipe or bronchi.

What Causes Endobronchial Diseases?

How is it Performed?

  1. Evaluation before the Test: The doctor reviews your scans (like a CT or PET scan). Blood tests and physical exams are already done before the procedure.
  2. Giving Anesthesia: EBUS is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. This keeps you relaxed or fully asleep during the procedure.
  3. Inserting the EBUS Bronchoscope: A special bronchoscope with an ultrasound probe at the tip is passed through the nose or mouth into the airways. The ultrasound gives a real-time view of tissues, masses, and lymph nodes outside the airways.
  4. Needle Aspiration (If needed): If something suspicious is seen, a needle is passed through the wall of the airway to take a tissue or fluid sample. This is called EBUS-TBNA (transbronchial needle aspiration).
  5. Finishing and Observation: Once the required images and samples are taken, the probe is removed. You’ll be monitored for a short time (usually a few hours). Mostly the patients go home the same day.
  6. Aftercare: You may feel a mild sore throat or cough for some days. You should take proper rest and avoid heavy meals for some time. The results from the biopsy may take a few days to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

No, it’s not painful. It’s performed under sedation or general anesthesia. You may feel a mild sore throat, but it goes away quickly.

The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many samples are taken.

Yes, it’s a minimally invasive and safe procedure. Risks like bleeding or infection are rare and are manageable too.

Yes, it is generally safe. But some rare risks may include minor bleeding, infection, or a brief drop in oxygen levels, which can be managed easily.

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