Critical Aspects of Ultrasound in EBUS

This chapter focuses on the critical aspects of ultrasound technology in Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS), highlighting its role in pulmonary and lymphatic diagnostics. It explores the principles of image acquisition, resolution, and the significance of different frequencies in visualizing structures within the thoracic cavity. The chapter also dive into the technical challenges and considerations when using ultrasound in the context of EBUS, such as optimizing image quality, distinguishing between various tissues in reference to lymph nodes. This chapter discuss about limitations like air interference and various artifacts encountered during performing endobronchial ultrasound. This chapter assist the clinicians with the knowledge needed to enhance diagnostic accuracy and procedural success.Understanding the spatial relationship and position of the targeted structure and the bronchial anatomy while performing EBUS procedure requires the consideration of computed tomographic images. Ultrasound images of major vascular structures such as the superior vena cava, aorta, azygos vein and heart should be recognized and colour Doppler method can be used while performing EBUS-TBNA to avoid puncturing of major vascular structures and creating complications. It is to be kept in mind that EBUS cannot access all lymph node stations in the mediastinum. EBUS can access only lymph node stations of 2R, 2L, 4L, 4R, 7, 10L, 10R, 11L, 11R.