Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy is an advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that allows direct visualization of the trachea and bronchial airways using a thin, flexible camera called a bronchoscope. It provides detailed assessment of the airway and helps identify abnormalities that may not be detected through routine investigations.Bronchoscopy may be performed to evaluate persistent or unexplained cough, coughing up blood (hemoptysis), recurrent respiratory infections, abnormal findings on chest imaging, airway narrowing, or suspected lung and airway disease.During the procedure, the bronchoscopist can examine the airways and, when required, obtain bronchial washings, brushings, or tissue biopsies for cytological, histopathological, microbiological, and other laboratory investigations.It can also be used for selected therapeutic procedures, including removal of airway secretions or foreign bodies and management of certain airway obstructions. Bronchoscopy is performed with appropriate monitoring and is generally carried out under local anaesthesia with sedation or, when clinically indicated, under general anaesthesia.