August 8, 2024 Author : Nuno Cortesão Mediastinum is the space between the two lungs and contains the heart, aorta, vena cava, thymus, esophagus and lymph nodes. Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) is a complementary, minimally invasive diagnostic exam, within the area of Pulmonology. It is a recent technique, which combines bronchoscopy and ultrasound and its main advantages are: Allow to visualize and biopsy mediastinal lesions, inaccessible through traditional bronchoscopy; Be safer and much less invasive than surgery (mediastinoscopy), which is the only alternative to access the same structures. How is endobronchial ultrasound performed? Endobronchial ultrasound is performed under general anesthesia . It uses an echoendoscope (a long, flexible tube) that is introduced through the mouth and guided to the trachea, with the mediastinal region being then visualized and accessed through the tracheal wall. The echoendoscope, which has a video camera and an ultrasound probe attached to its end, transmits images of the bronchial tree and other mediastinal structures to a monitor in the room where the exam is performed. In addition, the echoendoscope allows to attach a biopsy needle , which allows tissue samples to be collected (biopsy) for later analysis. In what situations can it be carried out Performing a bronchial ultrasound is generally indicated: When mediastinal tumors are suspected, that is, tumors in the space between the heart and lungs; For staging an already diagnosed tumor, that is, to find out whether a certain lung tumor has reached the mediastinal lymph nodes. In addition to cancer , EBUS may also be indicated in some types of lung infections , such as tuberculosis. Bronchial ultrasound is a very safe exam with a low rate of complications . In most cases, it is done on an outpatient basis. Preparations for this exam include blood tests, electrocardiogram and other tests that, depending on the case, are necessary. This exam requires fasting. After undergoing a endobronchial ultrasound, it is only necessary to complete a recovery period of 1-2 hours to be discharged from the hospital. Meet the pulmonology clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
