Bronchoscopy is an endoscopic method for examining the respiratory tract: the larynx, trachea and bronchus in order to identify diseases of the mucous membranes of these organs. The procedure is carried out using a bronchoscope -  flexible or rigid tube with a diameter of 3-6 mm, equipped with a lighting lamp and a photo-video camera. Modern devices are based on fiber-optic technology, which provides high diagnostic efficiency. The image is displayed on a computer monitor, so it can be magnified tenfold and save the record for later dynamic observation. Bronchoscopy is used in the diagnosis of chronic bronchitis, recurrent pneumonia, lung cancer. If necessary, during the process of bronchoscopy, it is possible to take tissue samples for a biopsy.

The technique of bronchoscopy provides the possibility of using the procedure for therapeutic purposes:

removal of foreign bodies from the bronchus;
cleansing the trachea and bronchus from pus and mucus;
washing and administering medicinal solutions (antibiotics, glucocorticoids, mucolytics, nitrofurans);
expansion of the narrowed lumen of the bronchus;
removal of small tumors.

For the treatment of respiratory diseases and taking material for histological examination, bronchoscope is equipped with the necessary surgical instruments.

If necessary, two studies are carried out together - bronchoscopy and bronchography. Bronchography is an X-ray method in which contrast agent is injected through a catheter or fiberoptic bronchoscope. The study allows you to study in detail the structure of the bronchial tree (especially those of its parts that are inaccessible for endoscopic examination) and assess its motor function during breathing.

How is Bronchoscopy Performed

The technique of performing bronchoscopy requires it to be carried out in a hospital setting - in a specially equipped office and in full compliance with the rules of sterility. A pulmonologist (or endoscopist), a physician's assistant and an anesthesiologist are involved in the procedure.

The study is carried out in a specially equipped endoscopic room, where the same sterility conditions are observed as in the operating room. The procedure is guided by a physician who has undergone special training in the study of the bronchus.

The duration of bronchoscopy is 30-40 minutes. Patient is injected with bronchodilators and pain relievers, which facilitate the advancement of the tube and eliminate discomfort. The position of patient's body: sitting or lying on the back. It is not recommended to move your head and move. To suppress gagging, you need to breathe often and not deeply. A bronchoscope is inserted through the oral cavity or nasal passage.

In the process of moving to the lower sections, doctor examines the inner surfaces of the trachea, the glottis and bronchi.

After examination and carrying out the necessary manipulations, bronchoscope is carefully removed, and patient is sent to the hospital for some time under the supervision of the medical staff (in order to avoid complications after the procedure).