Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy is a procedure used to examine the airways that lead to the lungs. A thin flexible instrument is inserted through the mouth or nose. It is a painless procedure that carries minor risks and is used to diagnose and treat various diseases.

The procedure must be performed on an empty stomach, for at least 8 hours. If you need to take medications, do so with very little water.
During the exam, you will be administered medications that will cause mild sedation, so it is best to be accompanied by another adult.
Before the exam, the nursing staff will administer local anesthesia in spray form through the mouth and nose, and will also give you oxygen.
While receiving local anesthesia, you may experience some discomfort, but rest assured that you can breathe normally. An anesthesiologist is present throughout the procedure, which usually lasts about 30-60 minutes.
After the bronchoscopy, you will need about an hour to fully recover. You will start regaining sensation in your mouth in about 2 hours, so do not eat anything during that time.
If you are taking aspirin or other anticoagulants, tell you doctor before undergoing a bronchoscopy.