bronchoscopies

Bronchoscopy is a medical procedure that enables direct visualization of the airways and the examination of the trachea and bronchi using a bronchoscope, a slender tube that can be flexible or rigid. It is performed by trained clinicians to diagnose lung diseases, evaluate abnormal imaging, obtain tissue samples, or perform therapeutic interventions.

Common indications include evaluation of a persistent cough, coughing up blood (hemoptysis), unexplained shortness of breath, infections, or suspected tumors; sampling of tissue or fluid for microbiological, cytological, or histological analysis; airway washing or clearance of obstructions; and the placement of stents or retrieval of inhaled foreign bodies. Flexible bronchoscopy is the most widely used approach and access is suitable for most airways; rigid bronchoscopy is chosen in select cases, such as large foreign body removal or complex airway strictures, often under general anesthesia.

Preparation involves reviewing medical history, obtaining informed consent, fasting, and adjusting anticoagulants per instructions. Local anesthesia and sedation are commonly used to minimize discomfort and anxiety.

During the procedure, the bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth and advanced into the airways while the clinician views a monitor. Possible actions include obtaining biopsies, brushing or washing samples (bronchoalveolar lavage), and taking cytology specimens. Some procedures may incorporate endobronchial ultrasound to guide sampling of nearby lymph nodes or structures.

Risks are generally low but can include sore throat, coughing, bleeding, infection, pneumothorax, and adverse reactions to sedation. Most patients recover within hours and can often be discharged the same day, depending on the individual case.