WESTWOOD, N.J. [June 17, 2026] – Hackensack Meridian Pascack Valley Medical Center is proud to announce the successful completion of its first Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) procedure on June 16, 2026 performed by Michael Spallone, M.D., thoracic surgeon. This milestone reflects the hospital’s continued commitment to offering advanced diagnostic and minimally invasive pulmonary care to the community.
EBUS is a state-of-the-art bronchoscopic technique that combines traditional bronchoscopy with ultrasound imaging to visualize structures within and around the airways, including lymph nodes and masses in the chest. During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube equipped with an ultrasound probe is guided through the patient’s mouth into the trachea and lungs, allowing physicians to obtain real-time images and perform precise needle biopsies.
The benefits of EBUS are significant. Unlike more invasive surgical procedures, EBUS is minimally invasive, typically performed on an outpatient basis, and requires little to no recovery time. It reduces the need for more complex procedures such as mediastinoscopy, lowers the risk of complications, and provides highly accurate diagnostic information—particularly for conditions such as lung cancer, infections, and inflammatory diseases. Early and accurate diagnosis through EBUS enables faster treatment planning and improved patient outcomes.
“With the introduction of EBUS, we are able to provide patients with a safer, more accurate way to diagnose complex pulmonary conditions without the need for more invasive surgery,” said Dr. Spallone. “This technology allows us to detect and stage diseases like lung cancer safely and more precisely, helping us develop the most effective treatment plans as quickly as possible.”
With the introduction of EBUS, Pascack Valley Medical Center continues to expand its capabilities in advanced pulmonary medicine, delivering cutting-edge care close to home. To learn more about the hospital, visit www.pascackmedicalcenter.com.