bronchoscopy
Pronunciation: brong-KOS-koh-pee
A procedure using a flexible or rigid scope to visualize the airways and perform diagnostic or therapeutic interventions.
Full Definition
Bronchoscopy is an essential diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in pediatric pulmonology that allows direct visualization of the upper and lower airways using either flexible or rigid endoscopes. Flexible bronchoscopy is commonly performed for evaluation of stridor, chronic cough, suspected foreign body aspiration, or lung infections. Rigid bronchoscopy is preferred for foreign body removal, airway dilation, or when general anesthesia is required. The procedure can also facilitate bronchoalveolar lavage for sampling, biopsy collection, and therapeutic interventions such as mucus clearance or treatment of airway lesions.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether flexible or rigid bronchoscopy was performed.
In Context
- "Flexible bronchoscopy revealed dynamic collapse of the left main bronchus during expiration." — Procedure report
- "Rigid bronchoscopy was performed to remove the aspirated foreign body from the right bronchus." — Operative note