Courtesy Photo
Pulmonologist Daniel Maxwell, D.O., (center) with Miguel Alvelo-Rivera, M.D., (second from the right) thoracic surgeon from MidMichigan Medical Center–Midland, stand together at the inaugural endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) procedure at MidMichigan Medical Center–Alpena. An EBUS bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose different types of lung disorders, including inflammation, infections, or cancer.

ALPENA — Patients in northern Michigan with an abnormal chest X-ray now have access to new diagnostic technology. MidMichigan Medical Center-Alpena now offers endobronchial ultrasounds (EBUS), an essential tool used to perform diagnostic bronchoscopies.

An EBUS bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnosis different types of lung disorders including inflammation, infections or cancer. The technology uses a camera attached to an ultrasound machine to give a 360-degree view of the airways and blood vessels in the lungs so providers can perform a needle biopsy.

“EBUS gives us a more accurate picture of structure in the lungs and chest so we can obtain the necessary samples for evaluation,” said Daniel Maxwell, D.O., pulmonologist. “This state-of-the-art equipment provides us the greatest accuracy and opportunity for diagnosis.”

Because of the level of detail afforded by this technique, lung cancer tumors can be detected, diagnosed, and staged accurately and quickly to aid in determining treatment options. The procedure is relatively painless so only a small amount of sedation and anesthesia is used, and patients typically return home the same day.

“The investment in this technology is another way the Medical Center is continuing to treat patients close to home,” Maxwell added.

For more information, visit www.midmichigan.org/lung.

MidMichigan Health, a nonprofit health system headquartered in Midland, has Medical Centers in Alpena, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Midland, Mt. Pleasant and West Branch.