EBUS-TBNA stands for Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration. It is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that combines bronchoscopy with ultrasound imaging to obtain tissue samples from structures near the airways, particularly the lungs and mediastinum. EBUS-TBNA is commonly used for the evaluation of mediastinal and hilar lymph nodes, as well as lung masses or lesions. EBUS-TBNA is commonly used for the evaluation of mediastinal and hilar lymph nodes, as well as lung masses or lesions.
EBUS-TBNA PROCEDURE
Patient Preparation:
The patient may receive local anesthesia to numb the throat.
Sedation may be administered for comfort.
Bronchoscopy:
A bronchoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera, is inserted through the nose or mouth and into the airways.
Ultrasound Imaging:
EBUS allows real-time ultrasound imaging of the bronchial and surrounding structures.
The bronchoscopist navigates to the target area using the ultrasound images.
Needle Aspiration:
A thin needle is advanced through the bronchoscope and guided by ultrasound to the target tissue.
The needle is used to aspirate (withdraw) small tissue samples from lymph nodes or lesions.
Diagnosis Results:
Pathologists examine the tissue samples to determine the presence of abnormalities, such as cancer cells, infections, or inflammatory conditions.