Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration

An EBUS is a procedure that allows the doctor to look into your lungs (similar to a bronchoscopy) but them to take samples of the glands in the centre of your chest (mediastinum) using the aid of an ultrasound scan, these glands lie outside the normal breathing tubes (bronchi).

A flexible tube (bronchoscope), which is about the size of a man’s little finger, is passed into your lungs via your mouth (you will have a mouthguard and some protective glasses on) with you lying as flat as possible. A small camera at the end of the bronchoscope enables the doctor to look directly into your windpipe (trachea) and breathing tubes (bronchi). A small ultrasound probe
on the end of the camera allows the doctor to see the glands in the centre of the chest (mediastinum) and take samples under direct vision. Occasionally, it is useful to look down your gullet (oesophagus) at the same time with the same camera (the anesthetic in your throat allows this), as sometimes the glands can be sampled from the gullet which often causes less coughing and is more comfortable for patient with breathing difficulties (if this is a possibility, it would be discussed with you beforehand by the doctor).

Most commonly, Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration is done to take samples from the central lymph glands in the centre of your chest (mediastinum) which may be enlarged for a variety of reasons. In 9 out of 10 cases, we would expect this test to give a helpful answer to the problem. Very occasionally, another test may be needed.

Yesterday I was up early after nil by mouth since 10pm for the EBUS at 8.30am. In fact I did not go in until after 9am.  The nursing staff and doctors explained everything  and after two trys to get a canula in me it was left to a Doctor to do it! There seemed to be about 5 people in the room for the procedure  which started after some sedation. I cannot say it was nice but I coped and was wheeled back to the recovery room. About 11.30 I was told I could go home, so Chris came to collect me. Sips of water could be taken at 12.15 and then something to eat, I was so ready   for a drink and to get home.

However it was not be be, I collapsed near the car to the ground [probably lack of food and drink] and four Ambulance men came to my rescue and insisted I went into A&E. as they could not feel a pulse!! Two hours later they let me go with a cheese sandwich for the journey.

Richard called in the evening and made sure with Chris I could get up the stairs to bed at 8pm. 

Hoping and planning for a recovery day today.

Again thank you for all the lovely email messages and prayers.