Bronchoscopy

Test Overview

Bronchoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to look at your airway through a thin viewing device called a bronchoscope. During a bronchoscopy, Opens dialog, your doctor will examine your throat, larynx, Opens dialog, trachea, Opens dialog, and lower airways.

This procedure may be done to diagnose problems with the airway, the lungs, or the lymph nodes, Opens dialog in the chest. It may also be done to treat problems such as an object or growth in the airway.

There are two types of bronchoscopy.

Flexible bronchoscopy.

It uses a long, thin, lighted tube to look at your airway. The flexible bronchoscope is used more often than the rigid bronchoscope. That's because it usually does not require general anesthesia, Opens dialog, is more comfortable for the person, and offers a better view of the smaller airways. It also allows the doctor to remove small samples of tissue (biopsy, Opens dialog).

Rigid bronchoscopy.

It's usually done with general anesthesia and uses a straight, hollow metal tube. It is used:

  • When there is bleeding in the airway that could block the flexible scope's view.
  • To remove large tissue samples for biopsy.
  • To clear the airway of objects (such as a piece of food) that can't be removed with a flexible bronchoscope.

Special procedures, such as widening (dilating) the airway or destroying a growth using a laser, Opens dialog, are usually done with a rigid bronchoscope.

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Why It Is Done

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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