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Definition
Bronchoscopy is the visual examination of the lungs and air passages, called bronchial tubes. The exam is performed with a bronchoscope, an instrument with a lighted tip. Bronchoscopy is also used to obtain tissue and secretion samples, and to wash the tissues with saline, a procedure called lavage, which can help a doctor diagnose cancer or an infection.
Parts of the Body Involved
- Mouth or nose
- Throat
- Bronchial tubes
- Lungs
Respiratory Pathway
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Reasons for Procedure
Bronchoscopy is done to visualize and diagnose problems inside the lungs. It is most often performed for the following reasons:
- Diagnose a lung disease or congenital deformity
- Examine possible tumors, obstructions, and secretions
- Obtain a tissue sample to test for cancer; this is called a biopsy
- Obtain a culture specimen to determine the cause of a lung infection
- Investigate the source of a persistent cough or blood that is being coughed up
- Check for the presence of a foreign body (gum, nut, or other object) that may have accidentally been inhaled rather than swallowed
Risk Factors for Complications During the Procedure
- Pre-existing heart or lung condition
- Chronic illness
- Advanced age
- Mental dysfunction
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
Your doctor will likely do some or all of the following:
Physical examReview of medicationsyou may need to stop taking some medications before the procedure, these include drugs that increase the risk of bleedingX-rays of lungs Blood testsCT scan a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of the inside of the body Tests to assess how quickly your blood clots and if you have normal levels of clotting factors in your blood In the days leading up to your procedure: Do not take aspirin or other over-the-counter pain medication during the week before the procedure, unless told otherwise by your doctorArrange for a ride to and from the procedureThe night before, eat a light meal and do not eat or drink anything after midnight During the procedure take deep breaths and do not talk during the procedure. You'll be given the following: IV fluidsSedationAnesthesiaOxygen AnesthesiaLocal anesthetic will be given to numb the throat and prevent coughing and gagging. Sometimes a bronchoscopy is performed under a general anesthetic. Description of the ProcedureThe doctor threads a long, thin instrument, called a bronchoscope, through the nose or mouth, down the throat, past the vocal cords, through the bronchial tubes, and into the lungs. One of two different bronchoscopes can be used: fiberoptic or open.
A fiberoptic bronchoscope lights up the area, projects a magnified image of the lung tissue on a screen, and allows the doctor to remove a small tissue sample. If a foreign body is present, the doctor may be able to remove it through the bronchoscope. Saline (salt) solution may be used to wash an area of the bronchial tubes or lungs. The solution is then removed and sent to a lab for examination.An open bronchoscope is thicker and enables the doctor to remove a larger tissue sample. X-rays may be used to help find a suspicious lesion from which to take a biopsy specimen. After ProcedureA laboratory will examine the removed tissue or the saline used to wash tissues. How Long Will It Take?The procedure typically takes less than 1 hour. Will It Hurt?Anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure, although it may feel uncomfortable and you may feel a tugging sensation when the doctor removes a tissue sample. Expect some soreness in your neck and hoarseness for a few days after the procedure. Possible ComplicationsBleeding at the biopsy siteCollapsed lungIrregular heart rateInfectionSore and swollen throatChipped teeth, if a ridged bronchoscope is used; however, most doctors now use a flexible fiberoptic instrument Average Hospital StayUsually none; occasionally overnight.
Postoperative CareSpit out saliva; do not try to swallow it while your throat muscles are numbDo not eat or drink anything for two hours because your throat muscles will still be numbWhen you are able to eat, start with sips of water and progress to solid food as toleratedIf you had a biopsy, do not cough or clear your throatA chest x-ray usually will be taken prior to dischargeDo not drive until the sedative has completely worn off and you are fully awakeResume medications as instructed by your doctorResume your normal diet, unless told otherwise by your doctor OutcomeThe doctor will usually give you a preliminary report after the sedative wears off and you are alert, however, it may take a couple of days to receive results from a biopsy and up to six weeks for findings from a tuberculosis test. Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following OccursSigns of infection, including fever and chillsCough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe nausea or vomitingCoughing up more than a teaspoon of bloodIncreased or unusual wheezing RESOURCES: American Lung Associationwww.lungusa.org American Thoracic Societyhttp://www.thoracic.org CANADIAN RESOURCES: BC Health Guidehttp://www.bchealthguide.org/ Canadian Lung Associationhttp://www.lung.ca/home-accueil_e.php
References: American College of Chest Physicians website. Available at: http://www.chestnet.org/ . Accessed October 14, 2005. American Thoracic Society website. Available at: http://www.thoracic.org . Accessed October 14, 2005. Last reviewed November 2007 by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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