A Bronchoscopy is a specialised medical procedure that allows a doctor to examine the inside of your windpipe and lungs using a thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope. This tube has a light and a camera that provide a clear view of the airways, helping the doctor identify infections, blockages, tumors, inflammation, or structural problems.

Bronchoscopy also allows the doctor to collect samples, perform treatments inside the airways, and manage conditions that cannot be seen or handled through external tests like X-rays or CT scans.

The procedure is safe, commonly performed, and done with numbing medicine and mild sedation to keep you relaxed and comfortable.

How the Bronchoscopy Procedure Works

1. Preparation Before the Procedure

Before the test begins, the medical team prepares you with:

• An IV line for giving medicines
• Monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels
• A numbing spray or gel applied to the nose or throat
• A mild sedative to help you stay relaxed (you stay awake but feel comfortable)

Your doctor will explain the steps and answer your questions to make sure you feel safe and informed.

2. Inserting the Bronchoscope

Once you are prepared, the bronchoscope is gently inserted through your nose or mouth. It moves through:

• The throat
• The windpipe (trachea)
• The larger airways inside the lungs (bronchi)

Because the area is numbed, you may feel mild pressure but not pain. Breathing continues normally throughout the procedure.

3. Examining the Airways

As the bronchoscope moves through the lungs, the camera shows clear images on a screen. Your doctor checks for:

• Infection
• Inflammation
• Tumors or abnormal growths
• Narrowed or collapsed passages
• Blood or mucus blockages
• Airway damage

4. Collecting Samples (If Needed)

To understand your condition better, the doctor may collect samples:

• Saline washings (Bronchoalveolar lavage)
• Brush samples
• Tiny tissue biopsies

These samples help diagnose:

• Lung infections
• Tuberculosis
• Lung cancer
• Chronic inflammation
• Autoimmune lung diseases

5. Treatment Through Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy is not just for diagnosis. It also helps treat several conditions, such as:

• Removing thick mucus or secretions
• Controlling bleeding inside the lungs
• Removing foreign objects
• Treating airway narrowing
• Placing a stent to open blocked airways
• Managing tumors inside the airways

6. Completion and Recovery

After the examination, the scope is gently removed and you are taken to a recovery area. The team monitors:

• Breathing
• Oxygen levels
• Heart rate
• Sedation effects

Most patients go home the same day. A mild sore throat or cough may occur for a few hours, which is normal.

Types of Bronchoscopes

1. Flexible Bronchoscope

This is the most commonly used type and is ideal for:

• Detailed airway examination
• Washings
• Cell sampling
• Biopsies

It is safe, comfortable, and suitable for most patients.

2. Rigid Bronchoscope

Used only in special or emergency situations:

• Removing large foreign bodies
• Treating airway tumors
• Controlling heavy bleeding
• Placing airway stents

This procedure is done by highly trained specialists for complex airway conditions.

Why Bronchoscopy Is Done (Indications)

Your doctor may recommend a bronchoscopy if you have:

• Persistent cough
• Chronic infections
• Abnormal chest X-ray or CT scan
• Suspected lung cancer
• Coughing up blood
• Breathing difficulty
• Unexplained lung inflammation
• Narrowed or blocked airway

Bronchoscopy is also essential for lung cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning.

Recovery After Bronchoscopy

Most patients recover quickly. After the procedure:

• Mild throat discomfort or hoarseness may last 24–48 hours
• You can eat and drink once your throat numbness wears off (usually 2–3 hours)
• Sedation may cause drowsiness for the rest of the day
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours.

Seek urgent medical help if you experience:

• Severe chest pain
• High fever
• Difficulty breathing
• Persistent bleeding

Is Bronchoscopy Safe?

Yes. Bronchoscopy is considered a safe and standard medical procedure performed by experienced lung specialists using advanced equipment. Complications are rare and are managed quickly by the medical team if they occur.

Why Choose Our Centre for Bronchoscopy?

At Kapil Healthcare & Magnus Diagnostics and Biopsy Centre, we provide:

• Expert chest and lung evaluation
• Modern bronchoscopy equipment
• Safe sedation and patient monitoring
• Accurate biopsy and lab testing
• Comfortable, patient-friendly care
• Clear communication and follow-up support

Your safety, comfort, and diagnosis accuracy are our top priorities.