DCH Regional Medical Center has a new, less invasive procedure for diagnosing lung cancer and other lung conditions.

Bronchoscopy with Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) is a new way to remove a tissue sample from lymph nodes around the lung to diagnose cancer, lymphoma or sarcoidosis.

During EBUS, an endoscope fitted with ultrasound and a small needle to obtain tissue specimens is inserted down the patient's wind pipe while the patient is under anesthesia. The physician can see live ultrasound images of the surface of airways, blood vessels, lungs and lymph nodes. The improved images allow the physician to view difficult-to-reach areas, which can lead to a better diagnosis.

The procedure can in some cases replace mediastinoscopy.