A bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure done by lung specialists to help them look at your lungs and airways. This procedure helps determine if any lung abnormalities are present. This is done with a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on it, that is able to look at all areas of the lungs and will obtain specimens and biopsies for laboratory analysis.
How to Prepare
To prepare for a bronchoscopy, please do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before, or as otherwise instructed by your physician. Be sure to also tell your physician if you take any medications, herbs or vitamins. This test takes approximately 5 hours. Please bring a driver to take you home after the procedure.
After the Procedure
This is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning you will be able to go home afterwards. Your physician and care team will monitor you after your procedure, and you cannot eat or drink during this time. Your throat may be sore afterwards, and it is not uncommon for patients to cough up some blood. Increased shortness of breath or large amounts of fresh blood coughed up should be reported to your nurse.
Your physician and care team will let you know when you should expect test results and when you should schedule a follow-up appointment.
Sara Ianitelli
McLaren Health Care
Michele Rachal
Catherine Loss