What Is Bronchoscopy? Procedure, Uses, and Benefits Explained

January 10, 2026

Bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to examine the airways and lungs. It helps doctors accurately diagnose and sometimes treat various respiratory conditions. At Sanchest, bronchoscopy is performed using advanced equipment under expert supervision to ensure patient safety, comfort, and precise results.

This blog explains what bronchoscopy is, how the bronchoscopy procedure is done, its uses, and the key benefits, in simple terms.

What Is Bronchoscopy?

Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows a chest specialist to look directly inside the airways (bronchi) and lungs using a thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope. The bronchoscope has a light and camera at its tip, which transmits clear images to a monitor.

A bronchoscopy test helps identify the cause of persistent respiratory symptoms when imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans are not sufficient.

Types of Bronchoscopy

There are two main types of bronchoscopy:

1. Flexible Bronchoscopy

• Most commonly performed

• Uses a thin, flexible bronchoscope

• Done under local anesthesia with mild sedation

2. Rigid Bronchoscopy

• Uses a straight, rigid tube

• Typically performed under general anesthesia

• Used in specific cases such as removing foreign objects or controlling bleeding

At Sanchest, flexible bronchoscopy is commonly used for accurate lung diagnosis with minimal discomfort.

Bronchoscopy Procedure: Step-by-Step

Understanding the bronchoscopy procedure can help reduce anxiety and improve patient comfort.

Before the Procedure

• Patients are advised not to eat or drink for 6–8 hours

• Certain medications may be adjusted

• Local anesthesia is applied to numb the throat

During the Bronchoscopy Procedure

• The bronchoscope is gently passed through the nose or mouth

• The doctor examines the airways and lungs in real time

• Samples (biopsy, fluid, or mucus) may be collected if needed

• The bronchoscopy test usually takes 20–40 minutes

After the Procedure

• Mild throat irritation or cough may occur temporarily

• Patients are monitored for a short period

• Normal activities can usually resume the same day

Uses of Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy is widely used to diagnose and manage lung and airway conditions. Common uses include:

• Identifying the cause of chronic cough

• Evaluating unexplained breathlessness

• Diagnosing lung infections such as tuberculosis

• Detecting lung cancer or airway tumors

• Investigating coughing up blood (hemoptysis)

• Assessing abnormal chest X-ray or CT scan findings

• Removing mucus plugs or foreign bodies

• Collecting lung tissue or fluid samples for testing

The bronchoscopy test provides direct visualization, making it more accurate than imaging alone.

Benefits of Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy offers several important benefits for patients with respiratory symptoms:

• Accurate diagnosis through direct airway examination

• Minimally invasive compared to surgical procedures

• Quick recovery time

• Helps in early detection of serious lung diseases

• Can be both diagnostic and therapeutic

• Safe and well-tolerated when performed by experienced specialists

At Sanchest, bronchoscopy is conducted with a strong focus on patient safety and clinical precision.

Is Bronchoscopy Safe?

Yes, bronchoscopy is generally a safe procedure. Complications are rare and usually mild, such as temporary sore throat or cough. Serious complications are uncommon when the bronchoscopy procedure is performed in a specialized chest care center.

Why Choose Sanchest for Bronchoscopy?

• Experienced chest physicians

• Advanced bronchoscopy equipment

• High safety standards

• Accurate diagnosis and personalized care

• Comfortable and patient-friendly environment

If you are experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms, a bronchoscopy test at Sanchest can help identify the underlying cause and guide effective treatment.

Conclusion

Bronchoscopy is a reliable and effective procedure for diagnosing and managing lung and airway conditions. By allowing direct visualization of the respiratory tract, the bronchoscopy procedure helps doctors make accurate diagnoses and begin timely treatment.

For expert bronchoscopy services, consult the specialists at Sanchest and take a confident step toward better respiratory health.