If you have been scheduled for EBUS bronchoscopy, knowing exactly what happens at every stage can make a significant difference to your anxiety levels. As a private EBUS specialist in Liverpool, I arrange the procedure at Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital and personally walk every patient through what to expect before, during, and after.
Before the Procedure: What to Do
Stop eating and drinking at least six hours before your procedure — this is essential for your safety and cannot be waived. Arrive at Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital at the time given and bring someone with you to drive you home afterwards. We will check your full medical history, review your current medications, and answer any questions you have before proceeding.
Step 1: Local Anaesthetic (5 Minutes)
We spray local anaesthetic into your throat and nose. It has a bitter taste but numbs the area effectively so you will not gag when the scope is passed. Your throat will feel thick and slightly strange — this is entirely normal and means the anaesthetic is working.
Step 2: Sedation (2 Minutes)
Most patients choose conscious sedation, administered through a small cannula placed in the back of your hand. You will feel drowsy and relaxed within moments but remain breathing independently throughout. Many patients have little or no memory of the procedure afterwards. General anaesthetic is not required.
Step 3: The EBUS Procedure (20 to 30 Minutes)
I gently pass the EBUS scope through your nose or mouth and into your airways. The scope is thin and does not block your airway — you can breathe normally around it throughout. Using the camera, I examine your airways directly. The ultrasound probe then allows me to locate lymph nodes and tissue masses outside the airway walls. Where sampling is needed, I pass a fine needle through the airway wall to collect tissue. You may feel pressure but not pain. The needle sampling takes only seconds per site.
Step 4: Recovery (Approximately 1 Hour)
After the procedure you will rest in the recovery area while the sedation wears off. We monitor your oxygen levels and comfort throughout. It is normal to feel drowsy, have a numb throat, and experience a slight cough. Once you are fully awake and your observations are stable, you are free to go home with your driver.
Going Home and After Care
Do not drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for 24 hours after sedation. Wait until throat sensation has fully returned before eating or drinking — this usually takes one to two hours. A sore throat for 24 hours is normal. Rest for the remainder of the day and resume normal activities the following morning.
Getting Your Results
Tissue samples are sent immediately to the laboratory for analysis. Results typically take five to seven days, though some specialist tests take longer. I will contact you personally to discuss the findings and explain all next steps clearly. If you would prefer a face-to-face results appointment, we can arrange that in advance.
Key Points to Know
- Nothing to eat or drink for 6 hours before — this is a strict safety requirement
- Bring a driver — you cannot drive for 24 hours after sedation
- The procedure itself takes 20 to 30 minutes
- Wait for full throat sensation to return before eating or drinking
- Results typically available within 5 to 7 days
EBUS Services at Our Liverpool Clinic
If you have been referred for EBUS bronchoscopy or require specialist respiratory investigation, private appointments are available with rapid access at our Liverpool clinic.
- EBUS Bronchoscopy at Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital
- Lymph Node Biopsy and Tissue Sampling
- Lung Cancer Staging
- Sarcoidosis Diagnosis
- Post-Procedure Results Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is EBUS performed in Liverpool?
Dr Suman Paul arranges EBUS bronchoscopy at Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital. Consultations and results discussions take place at Pall Mall Medical Liverpool. Call 0161 832 2111 to arrange your appointment.
How long does the whole EBUS appointment take?
The procedure itself takes 20 to 30 minutes. Including preparation, sedation, and recovery, most patients should expect to be at the hospital for three to five hours in total. You go home the same day.
Will I be awake during EBUS?
Most patients choose conscious sedation — you are drowsy and relaxed but breathing independently. You will not be under general anaesthetic. Many patients have no memory of the procedure afterwards.
Can I eat before EBUS bronchoscopy?
No. You must not eat or drink for at least six hours before the procedure. This is a non-negotiable safety requirement to prevent aspiration during the procedure.
How will I receive my EBUS results?
Dr Suman Paul will contact you to discuss results once the laboratory analysis is complete, typically within five to seven days. A face-to-face results consultation can be arranged in advance if preferred.
Book Your EBUS Procedure in Liverpool
If you have questions about the EBUS procedure or would like to arrange a consultation before your appointment, I am happy to talk you through everything. Private EBUS is available at Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, arranged through our Pall Mall Medical clinics.
Book a Consultation — Call 0161 832 2111
About Dr Suman Paul
Dr Suman Paul is a Consultant Respiratory Physician with advanced fellowship training in interventional pulmonology. He performs EBUS bronchoscopy regularly and has extensive experience in lung cancer staging, lymph node biopsy, and complex respiratory diagnosis.
Private EBUS consultations and procedures are available at Pall Mall Medical Liverpool, Pall Mall Medical, 61–67 Oxford Street, Manchester, M1 6EQ.
