Endobronchial Ultrasound

Endobronchial Ultrasound at Garnet Health

Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to help surgeons and pulmonologists accurately stage lung cancers and diagnose other thoracic disorders. We introduced this innovative technology as part of our lung cancer program at Garnet Health Medical Center in 2011, enhancing our ability to stage cancer and provide an accurate treatment plan without an invasive incision.

What to Expect During Your Endobronchial Ultrasound

This procedure utilizes a specialized bronchoscope that incorporates an ultrasound probe allowing the surgeon to visualize lymph nodes in the chest. A critical step in formulating a treatment plan for the patient is determining whether these lymph nodes contain cancer cells. The scope has a transbronchial needle that is passed through the wall of the airway guided by the ultrasound image to obtain tissues samples of the target lymph nodes. A pathologist accompanies the surgeon in the operating room to provide an instant and accurate assessment of the tissue samples.

This procedure replaces mediastinoscopy, which is also performed to biopsy these lymph nodes, however it requires a small incision at the base of the neck to insert a scope.

In addition diagnosis and staging of lung cancer with this procedure, other disorders, such as lymphoma and sarcodosis, can be easily detected in the chest without the need for an incision.