A bronchoscopy is a simple procedure in which the doctor examines the throat, larynx, trachea, and lower airways using an instrument called a bronchoscope.
What is it?
This procedure is used to visualize the airways when examining a patient. This may be done when someone is experiencing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, bleeding, or chronic coughing. It also may be used to collect tissue and mucus samples. This is done using an instrument called a bronchoscope. The bronchoscope is a thin, flexible tube with a fiber-optic system attached to a video camera and light source. It is typically inserted through the nose without anesthesia. A bronchoscopy may be used to find objects blocking the airways that need to be removed. It is also utilized by doctors to look for growths and cancers. The procedure takes, on average, 15 minutes.
What should I do to prepare?
Individuals should not consume food within four to six hours prior to the procedure and may need to avoid certain dietary supplements and medications.
What happens during the process?
This procedure may involve a local anesthetic that is sprayed into the nose and mouth. The bronchoscope is inserted nasally, and it is advanced throughout the airways slowly as the exam is performed. Additional equipment may be necessary, for example, if tissue samples are being collected.
What are the risks and potential complications?
Bronchoscopy is considered safe, but there is a possibility of side effects. These include spasms that cause breathing problems, heart arrhythmias, infection, and hoarseness.
Disclaimer:
All GlobeHealer Site content, including graphics, images, logos, and text, among other materials on the site are for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always contact your physician or qualified health provider for information regarding your health. Information on this site regarding the overview, diagnosis, and treatment of any kind should be looked at, in addition to the advice and information of your health care professional. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment or medical advice due to information found on the GlobeHealer site.
If there is even the possibility that you may have a medical emergency, seek treatment, call your doctor, or call your local emergency telephone number immediately. GlobeHealer does not endorse being the first line of communication in case of emergency and does not endorse any specific test, physician, facility, product, procedure, opinion, or other information that is or may be mentioned on this site or affiliated entities. Reliance of any and all information provided by GlobeHealer, its employees, affiliations, others appearing on the Site under the invitation of GlobeHealer, or visitors of the site is solely at your own risk and is not the responsibility of GlobeHealer.
Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:BroCaLiOL.jpg