Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS): A game-changing technique in the field of pulmonology

Modern medicine continues to evolve with remarkable precision and less invasive techniques. One such revolutionary advancement in pulmonology is endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), which has transformed the landscape of diagnosing lung diseases, especially lung cancer. With the increasing burden of respiratory illnesses in India and worldwide, timely and accurate diagnosis has become the cornerstone of effective treatment. EBUS stands at the forefront of this diagnostic revolution.

At KD Hospital, Ahmedabad, we offer cutting-edge interventional pulmonology services, including EBUS with radial probe and convex probe technologies, under one roof. Backed by advanced equipment, expert specialists, and a patient-centric approach, our mission is to provide safe, precise, and minimally invasive diagnosis and care.

What is endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)?

EBUS is an advanced, minimally invasive bronchoscopic technique that combines bronchoscopy with real-time ultrasound imaging. It enables pulmonologists to visualise and access parts of the lungs and mediastinum (the central chest area) that traditional bronchoscopes cannot reach directly.

Unlike traditional bronchoscopy, EBUS-guided biopsies provide access to deeper structures such as lymph nodes, peripheral lung nodules and masses, making them invaluable for diagnosing conditions like lung cancer, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, and lymphomas.

Types of EBUS

There are two main types of EBUS used in clinical practice.

• Convex probe EBUS (CP-EBUS)
  For evaluating and sampling enlarged lymph nodes in the mediastinum and hilar (lung root) areas. It provides real-time imaging along with simultaneous needle aspiration, which makes it the gold standard for lung cancer staging.
• Radial probe EBUS (RP-EBUS)
  Used to visualise peripheral pulmonary lesions or nodules not reachable by the convex probe. A miniature ultrasound probe is inserted into the airways to help locate abnormalities for biopsy.

When is EBUS recommended?

EBUS is especially valuable in evaluating

• Suspicious lung nodules or masses
• Enlarged mediastinal or hilar lymph nodes
• The staging of diagnosed lung cancer
• Unexplained lung lesions or persistent infiltrates
• Suspected cases of sarcoidosis or tuberculosis
• Lymphoma or other malignancies involving the chest lymph nodes

Why is EBUS important?

The power of EBUS lies in its ability to combine accuracy, safety, and efficiency. Let’s explore its key advantages.

Accurate diagnosis

EBUS provides real-time imaging, enabling precise sampling of lesions or lymph nodes, resulting in a higher diagnostic yield compared to blind biopsy techniques.

Lung cancer staging

Accurate staging determines the extent of cancer spread. EBUS is now the preferred method for mediastinal staging, critical for planning lung cancer treatment strategies.

Minimally invasive

Compared to surgical procedures like mediastinoscopy, EBUS is significantly less invasive, with reduced complications and quicker recovery.

Versatile diagnostic tool

It helps diagnose a range of conditions beyond cancer, such as sarcoidosis, granulomatous diseases, lymphomas, and even infectious diseases like tuberculosis.

Daycare procedure

Most patients can return home on the same day, eliminating the need for hospitalisation.

How is the EBUS procedure performed?

At KD Hospital, EBUS is performed in a sterile bronchoscopy suite by trained pulmonologists, supported by skilled anesthesiologists and nursing staff.

Pre-procedure preparation

• The patient undergoes pre-procedural investigations, including blood tests and imaging.
• Informed consent is obtained.
• Sedation or general anaesthesia is administered depending on the case.
• A local anaesthetic is applied to the throat to ease scope insertion.

During the procedure

• A flexible bronchoscope equipped with an ultrasound probe is inserted through the nose or mouth.
• Real-time ultrasound identifies suspicious lesions or lymph nodes.
• A special needle is used to obtain samples through the bronchial wall under direct vision (TBNA).
• Samples are collected in cytology vials and preserved for laboratory testing.

Post-procedure care

• Patients are monitored for any complications.
• In most cases, discharge is possible within a few hours.
• Instructions regarding diet, rest, and follow-up are provided.

EBUS vs. traditional diagnostic methods

Feature	EBUS	Mediastinoscopy
Invasiveness	Minimally invasive	Surgical procedure
Anaesthesia	Conscious sedation/general	General anaesthesia
Hospital stay	Daycare	Requires hospitalisation
Recovery time	24 hours	Several days
Complications	Low	Higher (bleeding, infection)
Diagnostic yield	High (90%+)	Comparable but more invasive

Benefits of EBUS at KD Hospital

KD Hospital is among the few leading centres in Gujarat offering advanced EBUS with both radial and convex probes. Our interventional pulmonology department aims to provide precise diagnoses while prioritising patient safety and comfort.

Advantages at KD Hospital

• Less invasive.
• It significantly reduces the risk of complications such as bleeding or pneumothorax.
• State-of-the-art bronchoscopy and EBUS suite.
• Experienced pulmonologists trained in interventional techniques.
• lOn-site pathology and radiology support for quick results.
• A Collaborative tumour board for lung cancer management.
• Affordable packages for diagnostic evaluation.
• Compassionate nursing and post-procedural care.

Who should consider EBUS?

Patients referred to a pulmonologist with any of the following concerns may benefit from EBUS

• Persistent cough with abnormal imaging
• Lung nodule/mass detected on CT scan
• Enlarged lymph nodes in chest X-ray or scan
• Suspected lung or mediastinal cancer
• Unexplained weight loss, breathlessness, or fever
• Recurrent pneumonia with localised changes

If you or your loved one fits any of the above profiles, consult Gujarat’s best pulmonology experts at KD Hospital for further evaluation.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about EBUS

Is EBUS painful?

No. The procedure is performed under sedation or anaesthesia. Patients feel little to no discomfort.

How long does the procedure take?

The actual procedure takes around 30–60 minutes, depending on the number of biopsies required.

Is EBUS safe?

Yes. It is a very safe technique with low complication rates compared to surgical methods.

How long is the recovery time?

Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours of the procedure.

Can EBUS diagnose all lung diseases?

While EBUS is effective for central and some peripheral lesions, very small or deeply located lesions may require additional procedures, such as CT-guided biopsy.

How soon will I get the results?

Preliminary results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, while complete histopathological reports may take up to 5 to 7 days.

In a nutshell

A new era in lung diagnostics

With lung cancer and other pulmonary diseases on the rise, early diagnosis is the key to better outcomes. EBUS offers a safe, efficient, and accurate method for diagnosing thoracic conditions, eliminating the need for open surgeries in many cases.

We are dedicated to delivering comprehensive respiratory care, driven by advanced technology and led by a team of experienced specialists. If you or someone you know is facing undiagnosed lung symptoms or suspected thoracic pathology, EBUS could be the gateway to early detection and treatment.