Bronchoscopy
Overview
Bronchoscopy is a procedure with minimal invasiveness that enables your physician to examine the interior of your airways and lungs. Typically, a flexible bronchoscope, a slender and flexible tube equipped with a light source and a small camera at one end, is employed for this purpose. In certain situations, such as when dealing with a substantial object obstructing the airway, a rigid bronchoscope may be necessary.
Medical professionals utilize bronchoscopy to identify the root causes of issues affecting the lungs, trachea (windpipe), or throat. Additionally, the procedure allows for the collection of tissue samples (biopsy) or the placement of a stent (a small tube) in the airway to maintain its openness.
Why it's done
Bronchoscopy treatment may be recommended for several reasons, including:
- Diagnosis of a lung problem
- Identification of a lung infection
- Biopsy of tissue from the lung
- Removal of mucus, a foreign body, or other obstruction in the airways or lungs, such as a tumor Placement of a small tube to hold open an airway (stent)
- Treatment of a lung problem (interventional bronchoscopy), such as bleeding, an abnormal narrowing of the airway (stricture) or a collapsed lung (pneumothorax)” rewrite content
Risk
Bronchoscopy treatment, like any major surgery, can pose potential risks and complications. Some of these include:
- Bleeding.
- Infection.
- Lung collapse.
How do I get ready for Bronchoscopy treatment?
Preparing for Bronchoscopy treatment involves several steps to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery:
- Your healthcare team at Indotaj Medical Center will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for your procedure.
- You will be required to observe a period of fasting (abstaining from eating or drinking) before the scheduled procedure. Additionally, there may be instructions to discontinue certain medications that could potentially thin your blood, such as warfarin.
- For your comfort, you will receive a sedative or anesthesia before the procedure. It is advisable to arrange for someone to be available to drive you home following the appointment.
