Abstract
Introduction: Yield of EBUS-TBNA depends upon the quality of aspirate/core obtained.
Aim: Analysis of diagnostic yield of lymph node aspirate using 22 and 21 gauge EBUS-TBNA needle.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 72 consecutive patients who underwent EBUS-TBNA. Of 72 patients first 44 patients underwent EBUS- TBNA using 22 gauge needle and subsequent 28 patients underwent EBUS-TBNA using 21 gauge needle. EBUS-TBNA was performed by single experienced interventional pulmonologist under sedation. By coincidence, since availability of 21 gauge needle suction is not being routinely applied for initial passes. Needle is moved back and forth without suction. Suction with provided syringe is applied only when adequate sample is not obtained. Samples obtained were sent: immersed in formalin, slides smears and solution for AFB culture & TB-PCR.
Results: The total diagnostic yield of EBUS-TBNA was 59(81.9%).
Conclusion: Lymph node core retrieval appears to be better with less bloody aspirate using 21 gauge EBUS needle. Core retrieval might be helpful for further laboratory processing like for histopathology, IHC markers, gene mutation studies & AFB culture.
- © 2012 ERS