Bronchoscopy�is a procedure used to look at your airway to diagnose problems with the airway or to treat problems such as an object or growth in the airway. A thin viewing instrument called a bronchoscope is used. Throat, larynx, trachea, and lower airways are examined during a bronchoscopy examination.
There are two types of bronchoscopy.
A flexible bronchoscope uses a long, thin, lighted tube to look at your airway and also allows the doctor to remove small samples of tissue. The flexible bronchoscope does not require general anesthesia, is more comfortable for the person, and offers a better view of the smaller airways.�
A rigid bronchoscope is usually done with general anesthesia and uses a straight, hollow metal tube.�
It is preferred in the following situations
Bleeding in the airway that could prevents a proper view in the flexible scope.
To remove large tissue samples for biopsy.
To clear the airway of food particles that cannot be removed using a flexible bronchoscope.
Special procedures, such as widening (dilating) the airway or destroying a growth using a laser, are usually done with a rigid bronchoscope.
Bronchoscopy may be used to:
Identify the cause of airway problems, such as bleeding, difficulty breathing, or a long-term (chronic) cough.
Take tissue samples when other tests, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, diagnose problems with the lung.
Diagnose lung diseases by collecting tissue or mucus (sputum) samples for examination.
Diagnose and determine the extent of lung cancer.
Remove objects blocking the airway.
Evaluate and treat growths in the airway .
Control bleeding.
Treat cancer of the airway using radioactive materials (brachytherapy).
