Flexible bronchoscopy Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Flexible Bronchoscopy Overview Flexible bronchoscopy is a vital procedure in Pulmonary Medicine, offering both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits. Indications Its use is recommended for a range of conditions, including persistent cough, unexplained lung infiltrates and haemoptysis. Flexible bronchoscopy is especially useful for assessing and biopsing suspicious lung lesions or masses, lung cancer diagnosis and staging, and investigating ILDs. Additionally, it aids in the detection of infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis and fungal infections. Procedure Flexible bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure for examining the airways and lungs. It involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope through the nose or mouth, down the throat, and into the lungs. The bronchoscope is equipped with a light and a camera, allowing the doctor to view the airways on a monitor in real-time. Local anaesthesia is applied to the patient's throat, and they may receive a sedative to help them relax. It is a day-care procedure which shortens the duration of hospital stay. Benefits The clinical outcomes of flexible bronchoscopy are highly favourable. The procedure boasts a high diagnostic yield for conditions, such as lung cancer, infections and Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) s, leading to accurate diagnoses.It can provide significant symptom relief for patients experiencing airway obstruction or haemoptysis.Furthermore, the procedure’s ability to offer precise diagnostic information helps in forming specific treatment strategies and adjusting them based on disease extent and response.In forming and adjusting treatment plans, flexible bronchoscopy is indispensable. The diagnostic insights gained from the procedure guide personalised treatment strategies, ensuring targeted therapies for conditions like lung cancer or appropriate antibiotics for infections.Its therapeutic capabilities often reduce the need for more invasive surgeries, providing a minimally invasive management option.Follow-up bronchoscopies are valuable in monitoring treatment effectiveness and guiding subsequent management steps.For patients with advanced respiratory diseases, the procedure also offers palliative care options, significantly improving their quality of life.