Bronchoscopy the procedure of choice in almost all kinds of lung diseases.

The bronchoscope is an endoscope used to visualize the airway (windpipe). Bronchoscopy is mainly used for the diagnosis of suspected pulmonary infections like TB, pneumonia, lung abscess etc. Through bronchoscopy, it is possible to obtain a sample from the exact side of the affected lung . By analyzing the sample the infection can be treated most effectively. Crucial for diagnosis Bronchoscopy is the primary diagnostic tool for patients with suspected lung cancer and those coughing out blood (haemoptysis). In cancer biopsy of the lung, tissue can be extracted by this method, avoiding the need for opening the chest wall. Certain lung cancers affecting the airway can also be treated by laser therapy and brachytherapy using this method.

Further symptoms

Unexplained and prolonged cough, haemoptysis, change in character of cough, uncontrolled wheezing, may require bronchoscopy to find the cause. Sometimes cancers, or a foreign body that may be the cause for the above symptoms can be diagnosed and treated by this simple procedure alone. Foreign bodies like a peanut, denture, chalk, etc, which have been aspirated into the airway can be removed without any surgical intervention.

Outpatient procedure

This procedure is being done as an outpatient procedure. No anaesthesia is required. It is pain free. Absolutely no incision is needed as the bronchoscope is passed through the nose or mouth into the airway. The ease of access into the lung, direct visualization, flexibility, simplicity of use which allows rapid examination even in restless/distressed patients, makes bronchoscopy the procedure of choice in almost all kinds of lung diseases.

Dr.P.Muthurajan, M.B.B.S., D.T.C.D.
Consultant Pulmologist & Intensivist,
MIOT International