Pathway and application value of exploration of the pulmonary artery by endobronchial ultrasound.

BACKGROUND

The current standard methods for detecting pulmonary artery diseases are pulmonary artery enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan and pulmonary arteriography. However, some patients cannot tolerate these procedures for various reasons. The present study aimed to investigate the feasibility and operation process of endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) in exploring the pulmonary artery.

METHODS

Based on normal contrast-enhanced chest CT images, the sites and process for exploring the pulmonary arteries were established. Then the feasibility of the exploration by the convex probe EBUS were evaluated, and roadmaps for exploration of the pulmonary arteries were drawn.

RESULTS

Among patients who underwent pulmonary artery exploration, sonograms of the left and right pulmonary artery were obtained by the convex probe EBUS. The above-mentioned pulmonary artery branches can be positioned by means of anatomical markers under the bronchoscopic view and follow a certain route for continuous exploration. Sonograms had a certain degree of identification and can be used as an auxiliary tool for pulmonary artery exploration.

CONCLUSIONS

EBUS can be used to explore the main branches of the pulmonary artery continuously. Therefore, EBUS could be considered as a candidate for the diagnosis of pulmonary artery diseases in a selected group of patients, i.e., patient with contrast allergy or renal failure.