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:

1. Preparation: The patient may be given a sedative or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia is applied to the nose and throat.
2. Insertion: The bronchoscope is gently inserted through the nose or mouth and advanced into the airways.
3. Examination and Intervention: The doctor examines the airways and performs any necessary interventions, such as biopsies or clearing blockages.
4. Completion: The bronchoscope is carefully withdrawn, and the patient is monitored until the effects of anesthesia wear off.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.

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