Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2018 | Research article
Radial probe endobronchial ultrasound using a guide sheath for peripheral lung lesions in beginners
Published in: BMC Pulmonary Medicine | Issue 1/2018
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Background
The diagnostic yields and safety profiles of transbronchial lung biopsy have not been evaluated in inexperienced physicians using the combined modality of radial probe endobronchial ultrasound and a guide sheath (EBUS-GS). This study assessed the utility and safety of EBUS-GS during the learning phase by referring to a database of performed EBUS-GS procedures.
Methods
From December 2015 to January 2017, all of the consecutive patients who underwent EBUS-GS were registered. During the study period, two physicians with no previous experience performed the procedure. To assess the diagnostic yields, learning curve, and safety profile of EBUS-GS performed by these inexperienced physicians, the first 100 consecutive EBUS-GS procedures were included in the evaluation.
Results
The overall diagnostic yield of EBUS-GS performed by two physicans in 200 patients with a peripheral lung lesion was 73.0%. Learning curve analyses showed that the diagnostic yields were stable, even when the procedure was performed by beginners. Complications related to EBUS-GS occurred in three patients (1.5%): pneumothorax developed in two patients (1%) and resolved spontaneously without chest tube drainage; another patient (0.5%) developed a pulmonary infection after EBUS-GS. There were no cases of pneumothorax requiring chest tube drainage, severe hemorrhage, respiratory failure, premature termination of the procedure, or procedure-related mortality.
Conclusions
EBUS-GS is a safe and stable procedure with an acceptable diagnostic yield, even when performed by physicians with no previous experience.