Bronchial Fistula and Pneumomediastinum after EBUS-TBNA Following Mediastinoscopy

Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA): revolutionizing the landscape of lung disease diagnostics

Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) has emerged as a revolutionary diagnostic tool for lung diseases, including lung cancer, sarcoidosis, and lymphoproliferative diseases. This minimally invasive procedure offers a superior diagnostic yield while ensuring maximum patient safety when compared to traditional invasive techniques such as mediastinoscopy and thoracoscopy. By enabling real-time imaging and sampling of mediastinal and hilar lymph nodes and masses directly from the bronchoscope, EBUS-TBNA has redefined the precision of diagnostic bronchoscopy. This comprehensive review explores the origins, development, and current status of EBUS-TBNA, highlighting its successes and identifying potential areas for improvement. Technological advancements have continuously enhanced the reliability and efficacy of EBUS-TBNA over time. The mechanisms underlying the superior diagnostic yield of EBUS-TBNA are thoroughly discussed, further solidifying its position as the gold standard for lung cancer staging and diagnosis. Furthermore, this review delves into the crucial role of EBUS-TBNA in lung cancer diagnosis, supported by studies comparing its accuracy, safety, and cost-effectiveness to other diagnostic tools. Looking ahead, ongoing research aims to expand the applications of EBUS-TBNA and improve its diagnostic performance. Notable advancements in needle design and sampling techniques hold promise for further enhancing its efficacy. Maximizing its potential through comprehensive training and continuous technological developments will enable broader clinical applications, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. As EBUS-TBNA continues to evolve, its diagnostic impact is expected to increase, solidifying its position as an indispensable tool in the diagnosis and management of lung diseases.

Pneumomediastinum: A Rare Complication of Endobronchial Ultrasound Guided Fine Needle Aspiration

Endobronchial ultrasound guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is a commonly performed outpatient procedure used for the diagnosis, staging of lung cancer, and the evaluation of thoracic lymphadenopathy of unknown origin. With the advent of this minimally invasive technology, mediastinoscopy, once the gold standard, has fallen out of favour. Pneumomediastinum is a rare complication of EBUS-TBNA and can often be managed conservatively. We present a case of a 52-year-old female who developed pneumomediastinum following EBUS-TBNA and improved with expectant management in the emergency department. We discuss the proposed pathophysiology of this rare occurrence that usually follows a benign course. Severe complications, such as mediastinitis and tracheal tear, need to be excluded promptly.

Pneumomediastinum following endobronchial ultrasound and transbronchial needle aspirate (EBUS-TBNA) sampling of mediastinal lymph nodes

A 72-year-old female patient underwent endobronchial ultrasound and transbronchial needle aspirate sampling of mediastinal lymph nodes to investigate a middle lobe abnormality following an urgent referral. CT imaging completed the following day demonstrated a pneumomediastinum. At clinical review, the patient remained clinically stable and no intervention was required.