Flexible Bronchoscopy

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

AMBULATORY CARE:

What you need to know about a flexible bronchoscopy:

A flexible bronchoscopy is a procedure to look inside your respiratory system (nose, throat, and lungs). Healthcare providers use a bronchoscope. This is a soft tube with a light and camera on the end. Pictures of your respiratory system appear on a monitor during the procedure. It is normal to have a sore or scratchy throat after your procedure. You may also cough up dark or brown mucus. These symptoms should get better within a few days.

Why you may need a flexible bronchoscopy:

A flexible bronchoscopy may help diagnose lung diseases, inflammation, cancer, or infections. You may need this procedure because you have blood in your spit, trouble breathing, or a severe cough. A biopsy may be done during a flexible bronchoscopy. This is when a small tissue sample is removed and sent to a lab for tests. You may also need lavage during this procedure. This is when a small amount of saline is used to wash parts of your airway and lungs. The cells that are rinsed off are collected and sent to a lab for tests.
A flexible bronchoscopy may also be used to remove a foreign object or tumor that is blocking your airway. Your healthcare provider may insert tools, such as a laser, probe, needle, or suction device, through the scope. These are used to heat or freeze tissues or suction out mucus plugs or blood clots. They may also be used to stop bleeding or to place a stent (tube) or balloon to widen your airway.

How to prepare for a flexible bronchoscopy:

Do not eat or drink anything for 6 to 12 hours before your procedure.
Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen, or other blood thinning medicines before your procedure. Ask your healthcare provider when you should stop taking these medicines.
Have someone with you to drive you home.

What will happen during a flexible bronchoscopy:

Your healthcare provider will give you medicine to numb your throat. You will also be given medicine to help you relax, or stop coughing or gagging. Your provider will place a mouthguard to help protect your teeth.
Your healthcare provider will gently pass the scope through your nose or mouth and into your airway. He or she will examine each part that the scope passes. Your provider may take pictures of the inside of your airway. He or she may also take samples or remove tissues that may be causing your symptoms.

Risks of a flexible bronchoscopy:

Your heartbeat may slow down and your blood pressure may decrease. This can cause you to sweat and faint. The scope may make a hole or tear in your airway. You may get an infection after the procedure. The space between your lungs and chest may fill with air or blood. These problems can be life-threatening.

Call 911 for any of the following:

You have chest pain or feel like your heart is beating faster than normal.

Seek care immediately if:

You cannot swallow.
You cough up bright red blood.
You are confused and dizzy or feel like you are going to faint.
You have shortness of breath.
Your lips or nails turn blue.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

You have a fever.
Your pain does not go away, even after you take medicine.
You have new symptoms or your symptoms are worse than before.
You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Do not smoke:

Smoking can cause severe damage to your airway. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you need help quitting. Talk to your healthcare provider about any smokeless tobacco products you regularly use.

Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:

Ask when you should expect the results of your procedure. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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