What is Bronchoscopy?
Bronchoscopy treatment is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat respiratory disorders. Minimally invasive bronchoscopy is a diagnostic and treatment procedure that allows doctors to visualize the respiratory system for diagnosing lung diseases, collecting tissue samples, removing obstructions, and treating lung conditions. Bronchoscopy is typically performed by a pulmonologist using a bronchoscope, a flexible thin rigid tube equipped with a light and camera which is inserted through the nose or mouth into the lungs.
What Are The Different Types of Bronchoscopies?
There are two main types of bronchoscopy procedures:
1. Flexible Bronchoscopy:
This is the most commonly used technique, involving a thin, flexible bronchoscope. It is used for diagnosing infections, lung diseases, and cancers, and obtaining tissue samples through biopsy.
2. Rigid Bronchoscopy:
This involves a straight, non-flexible tube and is usually performed under general anesthesia. It is commonly used to remove large obstructions and foreign objects or for laser therapy in the lungs.
What Conditions Are Treated With Bronchoscopy Procedure?
The bronchoscopy procedure is used to diagnose and treat a variety of lung and respiratory disorders. It is an essential tool for identifying pulmonary disorders for effective treatment. Some of the conditions treated with bronchoscopy treatment include:
Lung Infections
Lung Cancer
Chronic Cough or Hemoptysis
Airway Obstructions
Pulmonary Nodules or Masses
Bronchial Stricture or Narrowing
Interstitial Lung Diseases
Lung Abscesses
When Should I Consult The Doctor For My Bronchoscopy?
A bronchoscopy test is a significant step in diagnosing and treating lung conditions. Early consultation with pulmonologists can ensure timely intervention and management of respiratory issues. Unexplained respiratory symptoms or abnormalities can be detected by a comprehensive bronchoscopy procedure. Consult a doctor for a bronchoscopy test if you experience the following symptoms:
How Can I Prepare For A Bronchoscopy Procedure?
Proper preparation for bronchoscopy treatment is crucial for a successful procedure. Here are the key steps:
1. Fasting:
Do not eat or drink for at least 6-8 hours before the bronchoscopy procedure to prevent anesthesia-related complications.
2. Ongoing Medications:
It is important to inform your doctor about any ongoing medications, particularly blood thinners, as they may need to be stopped to reduce bleeding risk.
3. History of Allergies:
Discuss any history of allergies, particularly related to anesthesia, sedatives, or latex, to avoid potential reactions.
4. Health Conditions:
Inform the doctor of any heart conditions, diabetes, or respiratory disorders that may require special attention or precautions.
5. Arrange Transport:
Since bronchoscopy involves sedation, arrange for someone to drive you home post-procedure and provide assistance if needed.
6. Follow The Doctor’s Instructions:
The pulmonologist may provide specific pre-procedure guidelines, such as wearing loose clothing, avoiding any talcum powder, jewelry, etc., and including any necessary diagnostic tests beforehand.
What Happens During Bronchoscopy?
The bronchoscopy treatment is performed in the hospital as an outpatient procedure. This means that the patient can go home on the same day if the doctor does not suspect any complications. During a bronchoscopy, the following steps are followed:
1. Administration of Anesthesia:
The patient is given local anesthesia and mild sedation to numb the throat and ensure comfort and a smooth surgery experience.
2. Insertion of the Bronchoscope:
Subsequently, the doctor inserts the bronchoscope through the nose or mouth and guides it down the throat into the lungs.
3. Airway Examination:
After inserting the bronchoscope, the doctor examines the airways for inflammation, blockages, tumors, or infections.
4. Biopsy or Treatment:
The pulmonologists usually take tissue samples, wash the lungs with saline for analysis, or remove mucus and obstructions.
5. Completion:
After the procedure, the surgeon gently removes the bronchoscope, monitors your condition, and checks the vitals. The whole procedure usually takes around 10 to 20 minutes depending upon the sample taken, along with the surgical expertise of the surgeon.
What To Expect After The Bronchoscopy?
Most patients recover within a few hours after their bronchoscopy treatment and can resume normal activities the next day. However, if severe symptoms such as excessive bleeding, chest pain, or prolonged breathing difficulties occur, it is crucial to seek immediate medical assistance. The patient may expect the following after their bronchoscopy procedure:
1. Mild sore throat or hoarseness:
The patient may experience a mild sore throat for 24 hours due to the bronchoscope passing through the throat.
2. Mild coughing:
A mild amount of cough and blood is common, especially if a biopsy is performed. Certain cough drops can help subside the discomfort due to cough.
3. Temporary numbness in the throat:
There may be temporary numbness in the throat due to local anesthesia, making swallowing difficult for a few hours after the procedure.
4. Drowsiness and fatigue:
Patients may experience drowsiness and fatigue if sedation is used and hence, bed rest is advised for the remainder of the day.
5. Breathing discomfort:
Mild breathing discomfort may occur but should subside quickly. Any severe difficulty in breathing requires immediate medical attention.
6. Diet and Hydration:
Avoid eating or drinking until the numbness in the throat has completely worn off. It usually takes a few hours after the procedure.
What Are The Advantages Of Bronchoscopy?
Bronchoscopy treatment offers several benefits, including:
1. Early detection of lung diseases:
Enables prompt diagnosis and intervention for lung infections, cancer, and other conditions.
2. Minimally invasive:
Compared to open surgery, bronchoscopy procedure provides a less invasive method for evaluating and treating lung problems which causes minimal scarring and faster recovery.
3. Accurate biopsy:
Advanced bronchoscopy allows direct tissue sampling for histopathological analysis.
4. Removal of blockages or foreign objects:
Helps clear obstructions, improving breathing and lung function.
5. Effective treatment for tumors:
Bronchoscopy can be used for laser therapy, stent placement, or medication delivery to treat lung cancers and other pulmonary illnesses.
6. Precise evaluation of persistent respiratory symptoms:
Provides a thorough assessment of unexplained breathing difficulties, chronic cough, or abnormal imaging findings.
Recovery Tips After Bronchoscopy:
Recovering properly from a bronchoscopy procedure is essential for minimizing discomfort and ensuring a smooth healing process. The pulmonologist may recommend the following tips after the bronchoscopy procedure for a quick and smooth recovery:
1. Rest Adequately:
Avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours to allow your body to recover after the procedure.
2. Hydrate Well:
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids to soothe throat irritation and prevent dehydration.
3. Eat Soft Foods:
Encourage foods that are easy to swallow until the throat feels normal again. Avoid certain spicy foods which can irritate the throat.
4. Avoid Irritants:
Refrain from smoking, consuming alcohol, or inhaling strong fumes, which can irritate your airways.
5. Encourage Prescribed Medication:
Take prescribed antibiotics or pain relievers as directed by the doctor to reduce pain or any discomfort after the procedure and ensure a smooth recovery.
6. Monitor Symptoms:
Monitor symptoms and go for regular consultations with the doctor to check for any signs of complications such as high fever, excessive bleeding, chest pain, or prolonged breathing difficulties.
7. Use Throat Lozenges or Warm Saltwater Gargle:
Certain OTC medications and home remedies can help alleviate soreness in the throat after the procedure.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals For Advanced Bronchoscopy Treatment In Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals offers advanced bronchoscopy procedures by some of the best pulmonologists in Gurgaon. The hospital is equipped with cutting-edge technology that ensures a high success rate for all treatment procedures for lung and respiratory illnesses. Our team of highly skilled pulmonologists performs complex bronchoscopy procedures with negligible complications which ensures a faster recovery.
To book an appointment with a Pulmonologist at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Shweta Bansal
Respiratory Disease & Sleep Medicine
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does a bronchoscopy procedure take?
The bronchoscopy procedure usually takes 30-60 minutes. However, depending on the severity of the condition, the medical health of the patient, and the surgical expertise of the surgeon.
Is bronchoscopy painful?
No, the bronchoscopy procedure is not painful as the patient is given anesthesia for sedation. However, there may be mild pain and discomfort after the procedure as the effect of anesthesia wears off.
Where can I book a consultation with the best pulmonologists in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals has a team of the best pulmonologists Call +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Are There Any Risks And Complications Of Bronchoscopy?
While generally safe, there are some risks associated with bronchoscopy:
Bleeding from biopsy sites
Infection, though rare
Allergic reactions to anesthesia
Pneumothorax (lung collapse in rare cases)
Temporary breathing difficulties
How soon can I eat after a bronchoscopy?
You can eat 2-3 hours post-procedure when the numbness in the throat wears off.
Can I go back to work the next day?
Yes. Bronchoscopy is done as an outpatient procedure which means most patients can go home on the same day of the procedure. If the doctor does not suspect any post-surgery complications, you can resume normal activities within 24 hours..
Does bronchoscopy require hospitalization?
No, it is generally an outpatient procedure where the patient is usually discharged within 24 hours. However, in case the doctor suspects any complications, a hospital stay may be mandatory.
What should I do if I have severe pain after a bronchoscopy?
Get in touch with the doctor in case of any complications after the bronchoscopy procedure. Contact Artemis to book an appointment with some of the best pulmonologists in Gurgaon. Call +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
