Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration under conscious sedation with meperidine and midazolam

Abstract

Endobronchial ultrasound guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is usually performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation with drugs such as Propofol that, at least in Italy, can be administered only by an anesthesiologist. Aim of the study was to assess conscious sedation feasibility, safety and tolerability using meperidine and midazolam as administered by Pulmonologist and relevant impact on the efficiency of the sampling procedures.