Bronchoscopy

What is Bronchoscopy?

Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that allows a pulmonologist to directly examine the inside of the lungs' airways (bronchi and bronchioles). During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope is passed through the nose or mouth, down the throat, and into the lungs. The bronchoscope has a tiny camera and light at its tip, allowing the doctor to see the airways in real time.

Why Bronchoscopy is Performed

• To diagnose lung problems such as tumors, infections, or bleeding
• To evaluate persistent cough, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), or abnormal chest X-ray findings
• To obtain tissue samples (biopsies) for laboratory analysis
• To remove foreign objects, mucus plugs, or other blockages from the airways
• To place stents in narrowed airways or deliver targeted treatments
• To evaluate and stage lung cancer

What to Expect

The procedure is typically performed under moderate sedation. Your throat and nasal passages will be numbed with a local anesthetic. The bronchoscope is then gently guided through the airways while the doctor examines the lungs on a monitor. The entire procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Most patients can go home the same day after a short recovery period.

After the Procedure

You may experience a mild sore throat, hoarseness, or a slight cough for a day or two following the procedure. Dr. Singh will discuss the findings with you and, if biopsies were taken, will follow up with the results once they are available from the laboratory.