Flexible Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy Test
What is Bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic procedure in which a tube with a tiny camera (bronchoscope, See Figure 1) on the end is inserted through the nose or mouth into your lungs. Bronchoscopy allows the doctor to examine your throat, larynx, trachea and lower airways. During a bronchoscopy, your doctor will be able to rinse and clean the airways, take tiny tissue samples, or examine for abnormalities such as foreign bodies, bleeding, inflammation or tumors.
How is the test performed
The doctor will spray a topical or local medicine (anesthetic) in your mouth and throat to numb it. This may cause you to cough at first but will stop as the medicine begins to work. A second medication to help relax you may be given through an IV or pill form.
The doctor will gently and slowly insert the bronchoscope through your mouth or nose. A TV-like monitor may be placed above you. The picture on the monitor helps your doctor see clearly while the bronchoscope is moved through your airway. Your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen level will be monitored throughout the procedure.
How the test will feel
Local medicine spray in the mouth and/or nose will relax the throat muscles. Until the medicine begins to work, there will be a feeling of fluid running down the back of the throat and may cause you to cough or gag.
Once the medicine takes effect, there may be feelings of pressure or mild tugging as the tube moves through your airway. Although many patients experience the feeling of suffocation or difficulty in breathing when the tube is in the throat, there is NO risk of suffocation or that you will stop breathing. If you are coughing during the test, more medicine can be added.
When the medicine wears off, the throat may be scratchy for several days. After the test, the ability to cough will return in 1 to 2 hours. Eating and drinking are not allowed until then.
Preparation for Bronchoscopy
Do not eat solid food for at least 8 hrs. prior to testing. Do not drink any fluids for 3 hours prior to testing. You may take your scheduled asthma medicines. The testing usually takes 1 ½ to 2 hours.
Bronchoscopy testing is performed on the 3rd floor of Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital; Horvitz Tower in the Pediatric Sedation Unit. Please arrive 1 ½ hours prior to the procedure.