[Lung cancer staging by endoscopic and endobronchial ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration]

Endoscopic and endobronchial ultrasound are complementary techniques. When combined, they allow for nearly complete mediastinal staging in lung cancer. Each technique has inherent strengths and weaknesses, but when used simultaneously they become far more powerful, to the extent that mediastinoscopy -a more expensive and invasive procedure- is expected to decline in use as the application of endoscopic and endobronchial ultrasound becomes more widespread. The incorporation of these ultrasound techniques has been shown to lead to fewer thoracotomies, benefiting patients and also society, given that costs are thereby reduced. We reflect on recent developments in the field, discuss current debates, and propose a view of what the future holds in store.