Radial probe endobronchial ultrasonography (EBUS) provides real-time
imaging which allows guided exploration of the airways beyond the visual reach of
traditional flexible bronchoscopy. Using this technology, bronchoscopists are able to
improve successful navigation of biopsy instruments to peripheral lung lesions and
substantially improve diagnostic yields. Radial EBUS can also be used to evaluate
anatomic structures underlying the mucosal surface, such as for guidance of
transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA), as well as to aid other therapeutic modalities
such as the placement of fiducial markers for radiation therapy. Because of this
expanded capability to identify precise targets within the lung, guided bronchoscopic
navigation technologies now play a significant role in the clinical evaluation of
peripheral pulmonary lesions.
Keywords: Bronchoscopic navigation, Diagnostic yields, Flexible bronchoscopy,
Radial probe endobronchial ultrasonography (EBUS), Transbronchial needle
aspiration (TBNA).
