What happens during the test?

The physician will thread a long, thin instrument called a bronchoscope through your mouth or nose, down the throat and into your lungs. The instrument lights up the area and projects an image onto a small screen. This allows the doctor to remove foreign bodies, if present, and to take samples of tissues.

Will it hurt? 

A local anesthetic will be used in your throat to help prevent coughing and gagging.  You will be given some sedation to prevent you from feeling pain but you might feel a little uncomfortable or feel a tugging sensation when the physician takes a tissue sample.  For a few days after the procedure, your neck may be sore and you might experience some hoarseness.

What do I do to prepare?

Eat a light meal the night before.  Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.  Arrange for a ride to and from the procedure.

How long will it take?

Less than one hour.

What is the reason for the test?

A bronchoscopy is performed to diagnose problems inside the lungs. Following are some of the reasons it is performed:

• Diagnose a lung disease.

• Examine possible tumors, obstructions, and secretions.

• Obtain a tissue sample to test for cancer.

• Obtain a culture specimen to determine the cause of a lung infection.

• Investigate the source of a persistent cough or blood that is being coughed up.

• Check for the presence of and remove a foreign body (gum, nut or other object that may have accidentally been inhaled rather than swallowed).

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