Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS)

Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) is an advanced, minimally invasive bronchoscopic technique that combines real-time ultrasound imaging with bronchoscopy to visualize the structures surrounding the tracheobronchial tree. It provides detailed assessment of mediastinal and hilar lymph nodes, peribronchial lesions, and other abnormalities located adjacent to the airways.EBUS allows real-time ultrasound-guided sampling of lymph nodes and lesions through Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration (EBUS-TBNA). The obtained tissue or cell samples can be sent for histopathological, cytological, microbiological, and molecular investigations, depending on the clinical requirement.It is an important diagnostic tool in the evaluation and staging of suspected lung cancer, particularly for assessment of mediastinal and hilar lymph nodes. EBUS may also assist in the evaluation of sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, lymphoma, and unexplained lymph node enlargement.The procedure can provide valuable diagnostic and staging information through a less invasive approach compared with conventional surgical sampling procedures. The decision to perform EBUS and the appropriate sampling strategy are based on the patient's clinical presentation, imaging findings, and suspected diagnosis.