PANAJI
Manipal Hospital Goa has introduced an Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) facility to improve the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer and other chest diseases, reducing the need for patients to travel outside Goa for specialised investigations. EBUS combines bronchoscopy with ultrasound imaging to locate chest lymph nodes and collect tissue samples through a minimally invasive procedure. It helps diagnose lung cancer, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis and lymphoma, and can reduce the need for surgery in selected cases. Consultant Pulmonologist Dr Ashwini Colaco said the technology would strengthen specialised respiratory care by providing access to advanced diagnostics closer to home. Consultant Interventional Pulmonology specialist Dr John Muchahary said the facility would support the diagnosis of suspected malignancies, enlarged chest lymph nodes and complex thoracic diseases. Consultant Pathologist Dr Brizellda Dcunha said combining EBUS-guided sampling with Rapid Onsite Evaluation (ROSE) could improve diagnostic yield and enable specialised tests, including genetic testing for personalised treatment. Hospital Director Surendra Prasad said the initiative would help provide advanced diagnostics and timely treatment. The facility is expected to strengthen coordination among pulmonology, oncology, radiology, pathology and thoracic surgery teams, benefiting patients across Goa and the wider Konkan region.
