Broncoscopy
Overview of Bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy is a medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the inside of the lungs, including the bronchi, which are the main pathways to the lungs. It is performed using a bronchoscope, a flexible or rigid tube equipped with a light and camera.
Indications
Bronchoscopy is indicated for various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:
- Diagnosis: Investigating causes of chronic cough, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), or abnormal chest X-rays.
- Biopsy: Collecting tissue samples from the lungs or lymph nodes to diagnose infections, lung diseases, or cancer.
- Foreign Body Removal: Extracting inhaled objects from the airways.
- Treatment: Administering medication directly to the lungs, clearing mucus, or placing stents to open narrowed airways.
Types of Bronchoscopy
There are two main types of bronchoscopy:
- Flexible Bronchoscopy: More commonly used, involves a flexible bronchoscope that can navigate deeper into the lungs and is usually performed under local anesthesia and sedation.
- Rigid Bronchoscopy: Uses a rigid bronchoscope and is typically performed under general anesthesia. It is preferred for certain therapeutic procedures, such as removing large foreign bodies or controlling significant bleeding.
Procedure
During bronchoscopy:
- Preparation: The patient may be given a sedative or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia is applied to the nose and throat.
- Insertion: The bronchoscope is gently inserted through the nose or mouth and advanced into the airways.
- Examination and Intervention: The doctor examines the airways and performs any necessary interventions, such as biopsies or clearing blockages.
- Completion: The bronchoscope is carefully withdrawn, and the patient is monitored until the effects of anesthesia wear off.
Risks and Complications
Bronchoscopy is generally safe but carries some risks, including:
- Bleeding: Especially if a biopsy is taken.
- Infection: Though rare, there’s a small risk of lung infection.
- Breathing Difficulties: Temporary shortness of breath or decreased oxygen levels.
- Reaction to Sedation: Side effects from anesthesia or sedatives.
Recovery
Post-procedure, patients are typically observed for a few hours. They may experience a sore throat, cough, or hoarseness, which usually resolves within a day or two. Patients are advised to avoid eating or drinking until the numbness from local anesthesia subsides.
