Abstract
Background: Transbronchial biopsy (TBB) for peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) is usually performed with help of fluoroscopy, but the yield varies widely. This feasibility study aimed to assess ability of endobronchial ultrasound guide sheath (EBUS-GS) to provide imaging guidance for TBB.
Methods: Twenty-eight patients with PPLs were prospectively enrolled and underwent bronchoscopy with fluoroscopy and EBUS-GS procedure. In this procedure, the probe covered by a GS was introduced into the lesions via the working channel of bronchoscope. The probe was withdrawn, while the GS was left in situ. A brush or biopsy forceps were introduced through the GS into the lesions.
Results: Mean size of PPLs was 2.4±1.0 cm. Twelve of 28 patients (42.9%) was diagnosis by the EBUS-GS procedure. Also, the diagnosis was 30.8% (4 of 13) for benign disease and 80% (8 of 10) for malignant PPLs (p = 0.036). There was no statistically significant difference between diagnostic yield and size of the lesions, positive CT bronchus sign, and the EBUS probe located either within lesions or adjacent to lesions. Fortunately, no major complication was observed.
Conclusions: EBUS-GS is a safe and useful method for collecting samples from malignant peripheral pulmonary lesions.
- © 2011 ERS