During bronchoscopy, a bronchoscope (a lighted instrument with a video camera on its end) is inserted into the mouth and then down into the trachea in order to visualize the tracheobronchial tree.
Also Known As:
- Endoscopy
- Endoscopic surgery
Conditions Treated with Bronchoscopy:
Bronchoscopy is utilized in order to perform a biopsy or to diagnose and remove a foreign object or tracheobronchial tumor.
There are no comparable non-surgical or surgical alternatives to bronchoscopy.
Anesthesia with Bronchoscopy:
Bronchoscopy is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from Bronchoscopy:
Possible risks following bronchoscopy include swelling, muscle spasm, tooth damage, sore throat, infection, bloody cough and a negative reaction to the anesthesia. It is also possible to experience airway obstruction.
Recovery from Bronchoscopy:
The total recovery time for bronchoscopy is up to ten days, if a biopsy is taken.