Incidental findings of bilateral vocal cord polyps and asymptomatic pulmonary embolism during EBUS-guided mediastinal staging: a case report highlighting teamwork in management decision making

Abstract

We report on two significant incidental findings in a patient during the course of a routine Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) guided trans-bronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) procedure, namely smoking related bilateral vocal cord polyps, and pulmonary embolism. We discuss the sequence of events, the needed reassessment of risk/benefit analysis of the planned procedure and the rationale behind the decisions made as the case has evolved. Thoughtful stepwise approach to diagnosis and management through a real-time multidisciplinary collaboration resulted in a favorable outcome despite the complex medical scenario.