Bronchoscopy: Purpose, Procedure, Risks & Results

Bronchoscopy is a vital diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used by pulmonologists to examine the airways and lungs. It involves the use of a thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope that is inserted through the nose or mouth into the airways. This minimally invasive procedure helps doctors detect lung diseases, evaluate persistent cough or infections, and even perform treatments such as removing blockages.

Understanding Bronchoscopy

A bronchoscopy allows doctors to see inside the respiratory tract in real time. The bronchoscope use involves guiding a flexible, lighted instrument equipped with a camera into the bronchi and lungs. This direct visualisation helps specialists detect abnormalities such as tumours, bleeding, inflammation, infections, or blockages.

Bronchoscopy is often performed as an outpatient procedure under sedation or local anaesthesia, making it both safe and effective. In more complex cases, it can also be performed under general anaesthesia.

Bronchoscopy Purpose

Bronchoscopy serves multiple purposes, both diagnostic and therapeutic. Common uses include:

Diagnosis of Lung Conditions

• Identifying causes of persistent cough, wheezing, or coughing up blood.
• Detecting infections in the lungs.
• Examining suspicious growths or blockages.

Lung Cancer Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy plays a critical role in diagnosing lung cancer. Pulmonologists can collect tissue samples (biopsies) from tumors or lymph nodes to confirm cancer and plan treatment.

Evaluation of Pulmonary Fibrosis

For patients with unexplained lung scarring, bronchoscopy allows doctors to gather fluid or tissue samples, helping diagnose conditions such as pulmonary fibrosis.

Assessment of Pleural Effusion

Bronchoscopy can help determine the cause of pleural effusion, where fluid builds up around the lungs, and guide further treatment.

Treatment Purposes

Beyond diagnosis, bronchoscopy can also treat conditions by:

• Removing foreign bodies from airways.
• Clearing mucus plugs or blockages.
• Delivering medication directly to the lung

How Bronchoscopy is Performed

The procedure typically follows these steps:

Preparation

• Patients are asked to avoid food and drink for several hours before the procedure.
• A sedative or anesthesia is administered for comfort.

Insertion of the Bronchoscope

• The bronchoscope use involves carefully inserting the thin tube through the nose or mouth.
• A light and camera provide live visuals of the airways.

Examination and Sampling

• The doctor inspects the bronchi for swelling, tumors, or blockages.
• Biopsies or fluid samples may be collected for lab analysis.

Treatment if Required

Blockages may be cleared, or medicine may be delivered directly into the lungs.

Recovery

• Patients are monitored for a few hours post-procedure.
• Normal activities usually resume within a day, unless otherwise advised.

Bronchoscopy Risks and Complications

While bronchoscopy is generally safe, like any medical procedure, it carries potential risks. Awareness of bronchoscopy risks ensures patients make informed decisions.

Common Side Effects

• Mild sore throat or cough.
• Hoarseness of voice.
• Temporary drowsiness due to sedation.

Possible Bronchoscopy Complications

• Bleeding – Especially if a biopsy is taken, though usually minor.
• Infection – Rare but possible, requiring antibiotics.
• Breathing difficulties – Caused by swelling or reactions during the procedure.
• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung) – Rare complication, particularly during lung biopsies.

It is important to undergo the procedure at a specialised centre such as SPARSH, where expert pulmonologists minimise risks and manage any complications effectively.

Results of a Bronchoscopy

The results of bronchoscopy depend on the purpose of the procedure.

Diagnostic Results:

Lab tests on biopsies or fluid samples can confirm conditions such as lung cancer, tuberculosis, or interstitial lung diseases like pulmonary fibrosis.

Treatment Outcomes:

Patients often experience relief if mucus plugs or foreign objects are removed. For those receiving medications via bronchoscope, improved breathing can follow quickly.

Timeframe:

• Some findings, like visual observations, are immediate, while biopsy results may take a few days.
• Your doctor will explain the findings and outline next steps, whether it involves medication, surgery, or cancer treatment planning.

Who Needs a Bronchoscopy?

A bronchoscopy may be recommended if you have:

• Chronic cough lasting more than 8 weeks.
• Coughing up blood (hemoptysis).
• Abnormal chest X-ray or CT scan showing tumors, nodules, or scarring.
• Unexplained shortness of breath.
• Recurrent lung infections.

Why Choose SPARSH for Bronchoscopy?

SPARSH stands out as one of the best pulmonology hospitals in Bangalore, equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and state-of-the-art bronchoscopy suites. Patients are treated by highly skilled pulmonologists, often regarded among the best pulmonologists in Bangalore, ensuring both accuracy and safety in procedures.

Key reasons to trust SPARSH for bronchoscopy include:

• Experienced specialists in lung cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, and pleural effusion.
• Comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic bronchoscopy care.
• Multidisciplinary approach, ensuring patients receive complete treatment planning.
• Compassionate patient care with emphasis on comfort and safety.

When to See a Pulmonologist?

You should consult a pulmonologist if you experience:

• Persistent cough that does not improve with treatment.
• Difficulty breathing or unexplained wheezing.
• Blood in sputum.
• Recurrent chest infections.
• A family history of lung diseases such as lung cancer or pulmonary fibrosis.

At SPARSH, timely consultation ensures early diagnosis and treatment, reducing risks and improving recovery.

Conclusion

Bronchoscopy is a crucial procedure in modern pulmonology, allowing doctors to both diagnose and treat complex lung conditions. While there are certain bronchoscopy risks, the benefits far outweigh them when performed by experts. Whether for diagnosing lung cancer, assessing pulmonary fibrosis, or managing pleural effusion, bronchoscopy provides valuable insights and effective treatment options.

At SPARSH, the best pulmonology hospital in Bangalore, patients are assured world-class care and expertise from some of the best pulmonologists in Bangalore. If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms, consult a pulmonologist today to explore whether bronchoscopy may be the right step towards better lung health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of bronchoscopy?

The purpose of a bronchoscopy is to examine the airways, diagnose lung conditions, and sometimes treat blockages or infections directly.

What are the risks of bronchoscopy?

While generally safe, bronchoscopy risks include minor bleeding, infection, and rare complications like pneumothorax.

Can bronchoscopy detect lung cancer?

Yes, lung cancer bronchoscopy is commonly used to identify tumours and collect tissue samples for diagnosis.

How long does it take to recover after a bronchoscopy?

Most patients recover within a day. A temporary sore throat, cough, or drowsiness may be experienced.

Is bronchoscopy painful?

The procedure is performed under sedation or anaesthesia, so patients usually experience minimal discomfort.