Training strategies for neck ultrasound examination and ultrasound-guided cervical lymph node biopsies: a narrative review

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death world-wide. Cervical/neck lymph nodes are often involved in lung cancer; however, neck ultrasound (US) examination and US-guided biopsies of these lymph nodes are not routinely performed by respiratory physicians. Recently, several studies have shown the benefits of incorporating routine neck US into the lung cancer diagnostic algorithm. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize the current literature with regards to the training strategies, requirements, and needs for trainees to become competent in performing neck US and US guided lymph node biopsies. Following the implementation a pre-determined search strategy, 11 studies were identified as suitable and included in this review. Based on the included studies, we created a guideline for both trainers and trainees whose goal is to achieve competency in both neck US examination and US guided lymph node biopsy.