Bronchoscopy

What Is It?

Bronchoscopy is an examination of the larger airways (trachea and bronchi) using an instrument called a bronchoscope. A bronchoscope is a type of endoscope — a flexible instrument that sees inside the body using fiberoptic technology (very fine filaments that can bend and carry light). In bronchoscopy, the doctor can look directly inside the larger breathing passages for signs of tumors and can take samples of lung fluids or tissue if necessary.

During bronchoscopy, a flexible bronchoscope is inserted through the mouth or nose, then slowly passed down into the trachea and bronchi. To limit discomfort, the mouth or nose is numbed with a local anesthetic beforehand and a light sedative may also be injected into the veins. The bronchoscopy procedure itself usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, not counting preparation time.

A rigid bronchoscope sometimes is used instead of the flexible fiberoptic instrument described here. The rigid instrument doesn't bend, doesn't see as far down into the lungs as the flexible one, and may have a greater risk of causing injury to nearby structures. Because it can cause more discomfort than the flexible bronchoscope, it requires stronger anesthesia and is usually done in an operating room of a hospital. However, it is useful in certain situations, such as for taking large samples of tissue, treating certain cancers and removing foreign bodies.

What It's Used For

Bronchoscopy is used so a doctor can look at the trachea and bronchi directly. This may be necessary to diagnose lung tumors, infections such as tuberculosis or inflammatory conditions of the lungs. It is also used to check the airways for signs of bleeding, and to stop bleeding or remove objects. If your doctor sees a suspicious area during bronchoscopy, an attachment can be placed on the end of the bronchoscope to take a small sample of tissue to be examined in a laboratory.

Preparation

Because you will probably be a little groggy after the bronchoscopy procedure, you will not be able to drive. Be sure to make arrangements for a friend or family member to help you get home.

When your doctor schedules your bronchoscopy, he or she will want to know if you have any bleeding problems or any allergies to medications or anesthetics. Also tell the doctor about any medicine that you are taking or have stopped taking recently. You will be told not to take certain prescription and nonprescription medications before the procedure. In particular, blood thinners and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause excessive bleeding during the procedure. If you have any loose teeth, point them out before bronchoscopy begins. Also, if you are pregnant or there is any chance that you might be pregnant, tell the doctor.