bronchoscopy

Full Definition

Bronchoscopy is an invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that involves inserting a bronchoscope through the nose, mouth, or tracheostomy to directly visualize the airways. The procedure can be performed with either flexible or rigid bronchoscopes, each offering specific advantages for different clinical situations. Flexible bronchoscopy is more commonly used for diagnostic purposes, allowing examination of the trachea, main bronchi, and smaller airways. Rigid bronchoscopy is preferred for therapeutic interventions such as foreign body removal or tumor resection. The procedure enables tissue sampling, secretion clearance, and treatment of various respiratory conditions while requiring careful patient monitoring and often respiratory therapy support.

In Context

• "The pulmonologist performed a bronchoscopy to obtain tissue samples from the suspicious lung lesion." — Procedure report
• "Post-bronchoscopy monitoring showed stable oxygen saturation and no signs of respiratory distress." — Recovery room notes