Using ultrasound during bronchoscopy to detect pneumothorax

Use of Endobronchial Ultrasound Scope (EBUS) Transducer to Identify Pneumothorax-A Feasibility Study

Observational University of Oklahoma · NCT02907866

This study is testing if using an ultrasound during bronchoscopy can help doctors find pneumothorax without needing a chest X-ray.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Oklahoma Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
Trial IDNCT02907866 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study explores the feasibility of using an endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) scope to identify pneumothorax, a potential complication following bronchoscopy. Traditionally, a chest X-ray is performed to rule out pneumothorax, but this study investigates whether lung ultrasound can be effectively utilized instead. By employing the EBUS bronchoscope tip for ultrasound imaging, the study aims to visualize pleural sliding and B lines, which could provide a more accurate and radiation-free method for diagnosis. The goal is to determine if this approach can replace the need for chest X-rays in patients undergoing bronchoscopy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients presenting for bronchoscopy, those with pneumothorax requiring chest tube placement, and patients with respiratory failure on mechanical ventilation.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to provide informed consent will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this method could reduce radiation exposure for patients and streamline the diagnostic process for pneumothorax.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that ultrasound is more sensitive than chest X-rays for detecting pneumothorax, indicating a promising avenue for this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. All patients presenting for bronchoscopy (These patient are expected to have normal pleural sliding sign identified by ultrasound)
2. Patients with pneumothorax requiring chest tube(This group of patient is expected to have residual pneumothorax for identification of absence of lung sliding, B lines and lung point)
3. Patients with respiratory failure on mechanical ventilation(This group of patient is expected to have alveolo-interstitial findings such as B lines)

Exclusion Criteria:

-Absence of informed consent

Where this trial is running

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Pneumothorax
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.