Hazards of EBUS-TBNA:
(1) hemorrhage (hemomediastinum, massive hemoptysis, hematoma)
(2) infection (pericarditis, mediastinal abscess, bacteremia)
(3) pneumothorax or pneumomediastinum
Factors associated with an increased risk of complications:
(1) inexperienced operator
(2) device malfunction
(3) repeated needle entries at a single spot
Factors associated with hemorrhage:
(1) anticoagulation
(2) penetration of a large blood vessel
Factors associated with infection:
(1) immunosuppression
(2) introduction of oropharyngeal bacteria into a necrotic or poorly vascularized space
(3) failure to properly clean the equipment after use
A patient at increased risk for an infectious complication may benefit from prophylactic antibiotics prior to the procedure.
