What is a bronchoscopy and how is it done?
Most often done with a rigid scope in conjuction with microlaryngoscopy, bronchoscopy is a more detailed examination of the windpipe and its first series of branches into the right and left lungs. It also allows certain problems to be treated when identified, such as removal of a foreign body from the windpipe. A rigid bronchoscope is metal breathing tube passed through the mouth with the patient asleep. Oxygen and anesthetic gas is passed through the scope, while a bright light and telescope contained within the center of the scope are used to throroughly examine of the windpipe and its main branches. Flexible bronchoscopy is also sometimes employed to evaluate the windpipe in patients who are not good candidates of the rigid scope, or have tracheotomy (breathing tube in the neck).
