Overview

Bronchoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the lungs and airways. It involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope through the nose or mouth to reach the lungs. This procedure helps diagnose and treat lung conditions by allowing doctors to see inside the airways. It is commonly used for detecting infections, lung diseases, tumors and blockages.

Why Bronchoscopy is Required?

Bronchoscopy is performed when a doctor needs a clear view of the airways or lungs. It helps in:

Diagnosing lung conditions like infections, lung cancer or chronic cough.

Taking a biopsy (bronchoscopy biopsy) to check for abnormal tissues.

Removing blockages caused by mucus, tumors or foreign objects.

Examining unexplained breathing problems (bronchoscopy causing breathing problems).

Delivering treatment such as medication or stents to open blocked airways.

Key Advantages of Bronchoscopy

• Minimally invasive: No major surgery is needed.
• Accurate diagnosis: Helps detect diseases at an early stage.
• Quick recovery: Most patients go home the same day.
• Treatment option: Can remove blockages and take samples for further testing.
• Safe and effective: Advanced techniques ensure minimal discomfort.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Taking Bronchoscopy Treatment?

• Fasting: Avoid food and drink for at least 7–8 hours before the procedure.
• Medications: Inform your doctor about any medicines you take. Some may need to be stopped before the procedure.
• Allergies: Let your doctor know if you have any allergies especially to anesthesia.
• Medical conditions: Mention any lung or heart related issues beforehand.
• Companion: Have someone accompany you for support as mild sedation may be used.

How Bronchoscopy is Performed?

• Preparation: The patient is given a sedative or local anesthesia to numb the throat.
• Insertion: The bronchoscope (a flexible or rigid tube) is inserted through the mouth or nose into the airways.
• Examination: The doctor looks inside the airways to check for abnormalities.
• Biopsy (if needed): A small tissue sample may be taken for further testing (bronchoscopy biopsy).
• Completion: The bronchoscope is gently removed and the patient is monitored for a short period.

What You Can Expect?

1. Before the Procedure:

You will receive a sedative to help you relax.

Your throat may be sprayed with a numbing agent to reduce discomfort.

2. During the Procedure:

You may feel slight pressure but no pain.

The doctor will carefully guide the bronchoscope through your airways.

3. After the Procedure:

A mild sore throat or cough is normal.

You may feel drowsy if sedated.

You will be monitored for any side effects before being discharged.

Eating and drinking should be avoided for a few hours until numbness wears off.

Risk and Potential Complications

Bronchoscopy is generally safe, but like any medical procedure it has some risks, including:

Sore throat or hoarseness (temporary).

Coughing up small amounts of blood (if a biopsy is taken).

Mild breathing discomfort (usually resolves on its own).

Infection or pneumonia (rare but possible).

Reaction to anesthesia or sedation.

Results/Outcomes

Quick & Clear Diagnosis – Helps detect infections, tumors or lung diseases accurately.

Effective Treatment – Can remove blockages, take biopsies or deliver medication directly to the lungs.

Minimal Discomfort – Most patients recover quickly with only mild throat irritation.

Fast Recovery – You can usually go home the same day and resume normal activities soon.

Safe & Reliable – A well-tolerated procedure with a low risk of complications.

Better Breathing – If used for treatment it can open airways and improve lung function.

Detailed Reports – Biopsy and test results help doctors plan the best treatment for you.