Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)

An endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) is a procedure used to identify diseases in the lungs. It can diagnosis various lung disorders, including infections, inflammation, nodules, tumors, or other conditions.

An EBUS procedure is done using a specialized bronchoscope, which is a slim flexible tube with a tiny ultrasound attachment that takes pictures inside the lungs and of nearby lymph nodes. A needle biopsy may also be done as part of the EBUS process. Less invasive than other procedures, it can be done without making incisions.

Endobronchial ultrasounds are performed by pulmonologists, doctors who specialize in disorders of the respiratory system. Penn Pulmonology experts use advanced procedures, like EBUS, that are minimally invasive and provide excellent diagnostic results.

An endobronchial ultrasound is often recommended after a standard x-ray or imaging test finds areas in the lungs that require further evaluation. An EBUS bronchoscopy can take an in-depth look at different areas of the lungs to identify their characteristics or to take a biopsy sample. The flexibility of the bronchoscope tool makes it especially useful for accessing spots that are difficult to reach.

If you have certain respiratory conditions or bleeding risks, you may not be a good candidate for this procedure. Talk with your doctor about your medical history and whether an EBUS process is right for you.

Prior to the procedure, your doctor may recommend blood tests and ask you to stop taking certain medications. You may also need to fast for a time before the procedure starts. Your care team will provide you with pre-operative instructions.

You can expect these steps in an EBUS procedure:

• Anesthesia or sedation is administered through an IV (intravenous) line to keep you comfortable during the procedure and relax your airways.
• Your doctor will insert the flexible bronchoscope through your nose or mouth and into your airways and lungs. Your doctor will take images of any areas of interest. They may also do an EBUS biopsy to remove tissue or fluid for examination.
• The bronchoscope will be removed, and you’ll be taken to a recovery area to be monitored for a few hours.

EBUS is often an outpatient procedure that lasts 30 to 90 minutes. Most people can go home the same day.

It’s common to experience some minor symptoms the day or two after the procedure. They include:

• Hoarseness
• Sore, scratchy throat
• Coughing, sometimes with a small amount of blood

While an EBUS procedure is generally considered safe, there may be some risks of infection, bleeding, or a collapsed lung. Contact your provider if you have persistent pain, a fever, or difficulty breathing, or if you expel a large amount of blood when you cough. They’ll provide additional treatment for these symptoms to be sure you recover well.

Penn Medicine pulmonologists use the latest equipment to help pinpoint the cause of lung disease. With minimally invasive procedures, we can make an accurate diagnosis and provide a precise treatment plan tailored for your needs. In many instances, you can avoid a more invasive surgical procedure to get the care you need.