Pneumomediastinum following EBUS-TBNA in patients with Pulmonary Fibrosis

Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first case series of pneumomediastinum in patients with pulmonary fibrosis following EBUS-TBNA. We believe the radial traction placed on the airways (splinting) by the fibrotic lung disease and the increased airway pressure may have allowed air in to the mediastinum through the needle puncture sites. Both physicians and patients should be aware of this complication and we suggest a smaller 22 G EBUS-TBNA needle be used in patients with pulmonary fibrosis.
Source: European Respiratory Journal - Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Tags: Interventional Pulmonology Source Type: research