Bronchoscopy
Key points
- Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic procedure in which a tube with a tiny camera on the end is inserted through the nose or mouth into the lungs.
- The pulmonologist (a lung specialist trained to perform a bronchoscopy) sprays a topical or local anesthetic in your mouth and throat.
- This test may require an overnight stay in the hospital.
- The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust.
Alternative names
Fiberoptic bronchoscopy
Definition
Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic procedure in which a tube with a tiny camera on the end is inserted through the nose or mouth into the lungs. The procedure provides a view of the airways of the lung and allows doctors to collect lung secretions or tissue specimens (biopsy).
How the test is performed
The pulmonologist (a lung specialist trained to perform a bronchoscopy) sprays a topical or local anesthetic in your mouth and throat. This will cause coughing at first, which will stop as the anesthetic begins to work. When the area feels "thick," it is sufficiently numb. Medications may be given through an IV to help you relax.
If the bronchoscopy is performed via the nose, an anesthetic jelly will be inserted into one nostril. The scope will be inserted through the numbed nostril until it passes through the throat into the trachea and bronchi.
Usually, a flexible bronchoscope is used. The flexible tube is less than 1/2-inch wide and about 2 feet long. As the bronchoscope is used to examine the airways of the lungs, your doctor will obtain samples of your lung secretions to send for laboratory analysis.
Saline solution is introduced to flush the area and collect cells to be analyzed by a pathologist or microbiologist. This part of the procedure is called a "lavage" or a bronchial washing. Usually, small amounts (5-10 cc, or 1-2 teaspoons) of saline are used.
In certain circumstances, a larger volume of saline may be used. In this procedure, called bronchoalveolar lavage, up to 300 cc of saline (20 tablespoons) are instilled into the airway after the bronchoscope has been advanced as far as possible and a small airway is temporarily blocked by the scope. Bronchoalveolar lavage is performed to obtain a sample of the cells, fluids, and other materials present in the very small alveoli (air sacs).
In addition, tiny brushes, needles, or forceps may be introduced through the bronchoscope to obtain tissue samples from your lungs. Occasionally, stenting and laser therapies can be performed through the bronchoscope. A rigid bronchoscope is less commonly used, and usually requires general anesthesia.
How to prepare for the test
This test may require an overnight stay in the hospital. Fasting is required for 6 to 12 hours before the test. Your doctor may want you to avoid any aspirin or ibuprofen medications before the procedure. You must sign an informed consent form. Arrange for transportation to and from the hospital. Many people want to rest the following day, so make arrangements for work, child care, or other obligations.
Infants and children:
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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