EBUS is performed either under a general anaesthetic or sedation.  It is similar to a bronchoscopy where a thin tube is passed through your mouth into your lungs.  There is an ultrasound probe attached to the end of the tube.  EBUS can identify the size of the tumour and identify whether the tumour has spread to the lymph nodes (glands) in the centre of your chest.  Biopsies of the lymph nodes or any abnormal lung tissue can be taken.

The procedure usually takes around 30 minutes and you should be able to go home an hour after the procedure with a friend or relative.  In the same way as having a bronchoscopy, having an EBUS procedure can rarely cause a sore throat for a day or two.