Bronchoscopy

What is a bronchoscopy?

A bronchoscopy is the passage of a small fibreoptic tube down the trachea into the lungs. This takes 10 to 15 minutes and is performed as a day case procedure.

Why will I need a bronchoscopy?

Bronchoscopies are performed for investigation of problems relating to the trachea and lungs. Common reasons to perform bronchoscopies include coughing up blood, unexplained collapse of a section of lung, or investigation of some lung infections.

Are there any risks involved?

Risks of a bronchoscopy are generally minimal. Some patients may experience discomfort or a sore throat. Some coughing after the procedure is also common. A small amount of bleeding is not uncommon, especially if biopsies are performed.

What is recovery like?

Bronchoscopy is generally performed under sedation (light anaesthetic). As a result, it is recommended that somebody stays with you overnight as the anaesthetic wears off. Driving is not recommended for 24 hours after the procedure. Otherwise, recovery is swift and the procedure is well tolerated.