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Bronchoscopy

What Is Bronchoscopy?

When a patient exhibits symptoms of lung diseases, doctors use bronchoscopy to diagnose the airways.  The doctor inserts either a flexible or rigid bronchoscope into the nose or mouth and passes it down into the lungs.  If a rigid tube is to be used, the patient receives general anesthesia.  If a flexible tube is used, local anesthetic is sprayed into the mouth and throat, and a numbing gel is applied to one nostril if the tube is to be passed through the nose.  When the area is sufficiently numb, it usually feels “thick.” In some cases, medications to help the patient relax are administered intravenously.   

Once the doctor has inserted the tube, saline solution is passed down it to flush out the lungs.  The doctor then uses small brushes, needles, or forceps passed through the tube to collect samples of tissue, cells, fluids, and other materials.  A stent may be used to hold the tube open, and many doctors use ultrasound technology to view the lungs during the process.   

Bronchoscopy is generally performed as an outpatient procedure, but some patients may need to be kept overnight for observation.  Some bleeding may occur because of the biopsy.  The nurse or technician will closely monitor this.  The cough and gag reflex usually returns within an hour or two after bronchoscopy.  Patients may resume eating and drinking shortly thereafter.