Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)

EBUS is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that uses ultrasound technology to enable a specialist to visualise and sample structures within and around the lungs.

Performed with a specialised bronchoscope equipped with an ultrasound probe and needle, this procedure allows your specialist to collect tissue samples and assess your lungs for abnormalities. The combination of visualisation and tissue samples helps in diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as lung cancer, infections (such as tuberculosis), inflammatory conditions (such as sarcoidosis) and lymphadenopathy.

EBUS can also diagnose hard-to-reach tumours, including ones located next to the bronchus (the airway between the lung and windpipe).

Having an EBUS speeds up diagnosis, allowing your specialist to begin treatment sooner.

EBUS is generally considered a very safe procedure. As such, serious complications are uncommon when an EBUS is performed by an experienced specialist.

However, there are some potential complications to be aware of:

• Bleeding – if you’ve had an EBUS with biopsy, minor bleeding is possible. However, it usually resolves without intervention
• Infection – there is a low risk of infection in the lungs or mediastinum due to a biopsy procedure
• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung) – this is an extremely rare complication, but it can occur if the lung is inadvertently punctured during needle aspiration
• Sore throat or hoarseness – you can experience temporary irritation of the throat or vocal cords from the bronchoscope
• Sedation-related complications – you may experience side effects, such as dizziness or nausea. Rarely, sedatives can cause an allergic reaction
• Discomfort or coughing – mild and temporary discomfort may occur during or after the procedure
• Failed procedure – in rare cases, when an EBUS biopsy is required, insufficient tissue may be collected, meaning the bronchoscopy procedure may need to be repeated