Bronchoscopy, Diagnostic

Visual examination of the lungs and air passages, called bronchial tubes, with a bronchoscope, an instrument with a lighted tip. Bronchoscopy is also used to obtain tissue 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

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 exam
  • Review of medications

Outcome

The 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 Occurs

  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe nausea or vomiting
  • Coughing up more than a teaspoon of blood
  • Increased or unusual wheezing