Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy is a minimal invasive surgical procedure that allows the doctor to take a look inside the lungs and airways. It is performed using a bronchoscope that is a thin, flexible and bendable tube with attached light and camera. Bronchoscopy is performed to diagnose any issues in the lungs, throat or trachea. Sometimes this procedure can be used to take tissue samples or insert a stent in the airway.

When is Bronchoscopy needed?

There can be various reasons for performing this procedure. Some of the most common ones for which doctors recommend Bronchoscopy are as follows:

1. Diagnosing the cause of shortness of breath or any other lung disease.
2. Conforming the reports of an X-ray or CT scan that showed possible signs of tumor or lung damage.
3. To get an access and treat blockages in the airways.
4. Taking tissue samples or samples of mucus.
5. Evaluating the lymph nodes around lungs.

How to prepare for Bronchoscopy?

Doctors may prescribe some food and medication restriction and other precautionary measures as a preparation for Bronchoscopy. The precautionary measures are:

1. Doctors may ask to stop consuming food or water before 4-8 hours of the procedure. Certain medications like aspirin are blood-thinning, so that may also be restricted.
2. As a precautionary measure, doctors ask to remove dentures, bridges, hearing aids, contact lenses or glasses.
3. It is advisable to tag along a family member or friend as one needs to head home after the procedure and after effects of the medications may be still lingering.

The results are usually discussed after 3-4 days of the procedure.