Bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera (bronchoscope) is passed through the nose or mouth, down the throat, and into the airways (bronchi) of the lungs. It allows the pulmonologist to directly visualise the airways, take tissue biopsies, collect fluid samples, or perform therapeutic interventions such as clearing mucus plugs or stent placement. It is a key tool in diagnosing lung cancer, infections, and unexplained haemoptysis.
🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed
- 1
The patient is given a local anaesthetic throat spray and mild sedation.
- 2
The bronchoscope is gently passed through the nose or mouth into the trachea.
- 3
The airways are systematically examined down to the small bronchi.
- 4
Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) — sterile saline is instilled and retrieved for analysis.
- 5
Biopsies are taken from any abnormal areas using small forceps.
- 6
The bronchoscope is removed; the patient recovers in a monitored bay for 1–2 hours.
✅ Benefits of Bronchoscopy
- ✓Direct visualisation of the airways — far more informative than imaging alone
- ✓Allows biopsy of suspected lung cancers without open surgery
- ✓Diagnoses infections (TB, fungal) by collecting specimens
- ✓Therapeutic — can remove mucus plugs, foreign bodies, or place airway stents
- ✓Day procedure — patient usually goes home the same day
📋 How to Prepare
- Fast for 4–6 hours before the procedure.
- Inform the doctor of all medications, especially blood thinners.
- Chest X-ray and lung function tests are typically done beforehand.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home as sedation will be given.
- Remove dentures, contact lenses, and jewellery before the procedure.
⚠️ Possible Risks & Side Effects
- Temporary sore throat or hoarse voice after the procedure
- Low-grade fever from the procedure (resolves spontaneously)
- Small risk of bleeding after biopsy
- Bronchospasm (airway tightening) — managed on the table
- Rarely, pneumothorax (collapsed lung) after biopsy
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
💊 Post-Procedure Care
- Do not eat or drink for 1–2 hours after the procedure until the throat numbness wears off.
- Mild throat discomfort is normal — lozenges and warm fluids help.
- Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours.
- Seek immediate help if you cough up significant blood or develop difficulty breathing.
- Biopsy results are typically available within a week.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be awake during bronchoscopy?
You are given sedation so you are relaxed and drowsy but not fully unconscious. Most patients have little or no memory of the procedure afterwards.
Can I drive myself home after bronchoscopy?
No. The sedation means you cannot drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day. A responsible adult must accompany you.
🏥 Bronchoscopy at Iswarya Hospital
Expert diagnosis and treatment of respiratory conditions with 20+ years of experience from Dr. Rajkumar Kulasekaran.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.