Patient Satisfaction During Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration Performed Under Conscious Sedation

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Mediastinal and hilar lymph node evaluation with endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is being performed with increasing frequency. Original reports described performance under general anesthesia. Patient satisfaction is an important determinant of whether EBUS-TBNA may be performed under conscious sedation. METHODS: Consecutive patients undergoing EBUS-TBNA under conscious sedation completed a self-administered questionnaire 2-4 hours after the procedure. Satisfaction was determined by patient willingness to return for the procedure in the future. Patients also reported degree of recall of the procedure and any distressing symptoms. Proced..