Bronchoscopy: what does it consist of and when is it needed?

  Bronchoscopy is a medical procedure that allows doctors to directly view a patient's airways. This provides an opportunity to understand and treat many lung diseases. In this article, we will discuss what bronchoscopy is and when it is needed.

   What is bronchoscopy?

  Bronchoscopy is a procedure in which a doctor inserts a thin, flexible instrument called a bronchoscope through the nose or mouth into the airways. At the end of the bronchoscope is a camera and light source that allow the doctor to see the inside of the airways on a monitor.

  Depending on the situation, the procedure may be performed with local anesthesia and sedatives, or the patient may be sedated.
 

   When is a bronchoscopy needed?

  Bronchoscopy is a procedure that can be used in a variety of situations. The following are some of them:

   - Diagnosis: Bronchoscopy can help doctors diagnose various lung diseases, such as cancer, infection, airway narrowing or airway inflammation. During a bronchoscopy, the doctor may take tissue or fluid samples (biopsy) for further examination.

   - Treatment: Bronchoscopy can also be used to treat certain lung diseases. For example, the doctor may use special instruments to remove foreign bodies, dilate narrowed airways or stop bleeding.

   - Monitoring: In some cases, bronchoscopy can be used to monitor the course of a disease or response to treatment. For example, it can be used to evaluate airway changes after lung cancer treatment.

   What to expect from a bronchoscopy?

  Bronchoscopy is usually well tolerated by patients. Before the procedure, the doctor will apply a local anesthetic to the nose and throat to minimize discomfort. In some cases, the patient may be given sedatives.

  After the procedure, the patient may experience mild throat irritation or temporarily have difficulty speaking. In rare cases, more serious complications, such as bleeding or infections, may occur.

  In conclusion, bronchoscopy is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool in pulmonology. It allows doctors to directly evaluate the airways and perform various procedures. If you have any questions about bronchoscopy, always consult your doctor.