Bronchoscopy

Your physician has referred you to the Diagnostic Services Department at United Hospital Center for a Bronchoscopy.

A Bronchoscopy allows the doctor to examine your airway (windpipe and lungs) with a thin, flexible instrument called a bronchoscope.

By looking through the bronchoscope's eyepiece, the doctor can see abnormalities and obstructions. With another part of the instrument, he can obtain tiny tissue samples to help diagnose your illness. He can also remove excess mucus.

Just before the test, you will receive a local anesthetic to numb the back of your throat and to stop you from gagging. You will also receive a sedative to help you relax. You will lie on your back or sit upright depending on your comfort and the doctor's preference. The doctor will insert the end of the bronschoscope through your nose or mouth.

As the instrument is advanced, the doctor will flush small amounts of liquid anesthetic through it to decrease any coughing and wheezing you experience. The instrument will slide through your major airways. You may experience some discomfort breathing at this time. Stay calm and if necessary extra oxygen will administered.

When the exam is over the doctor will remove the bronchoscope and you will be moved to a hospital room, where you will be monitored for approximately six (6) hours.

Approximately every fifteen (15) minutes a nurse will monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing. You may lie comfortable with your head raised. Until the anesthetic wears off and your gag reflex returns, you will not be allowed to eat, drink, or take oral medications. You may be hoarse or have a sore throat, but this is only temporary.

Since you will be given sedative, you may want a friend or family member to accompany you to transport you home.

You may experience some bloody mucus after your bronchoscopy. Call you doctor if this should worsen or if you experience chest pain and/or shortness of breath.

DO NOT eat or drink anything eight (8) hours before the test. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted for twenty-four (24) hours prior to the test. Food and alcohol can cause test complications and create problems with any sedatives you are given.

Do continue to take prescribed medications with small sips of water, if necessary, unless otherwise directed by your physician. If you are taking any blood thinning medication, PLEASE notify the physician performing the procedure.

LENGTH: Approximately 1 hour for procedure only.