Rigid bronchoscopy is a procedure to look into the inner parts of respiratory system. Surgeons use rigid bronchoscope with a light and a tiny camera at the end. This takes the pictures of inner airways. In rigid bronchoscopy, diseases and other conditions which affect lungs and airways are detected. These include troubled breathing, causes of cough and blood in sputum.
Health care provider also checks for inflammation, polyps, infections, cancer and narrowing of airways. Biopsy is performed to take a small tissue. He cam also do lavage or washing during the procedure. Small amount of salt water or saline is used to clean lungs and parts of airways. Cells which are rinsed are collected and tested in lab.
The doctor treats several conditions by performing bronchoscopy. He removes tumors and foreign objects that blocks the airways. He also inserts special equipments, like needles, suctions, lasers or probes through bronchoscope. These are used to freeze or heat tissues and also for sucking out blood clots and mucus plugs. Caregiver stops bleeding or widen the tubes by placing a stunt or balloon.
Rigid Bronchoscopy Procedure:
Health care provider numbs throat or puts you to sleep by giving anaesthesia. Blood pressure and heart beat are checked during this procedure. Doctor sends bronchoscope into mouth and also into airways to look into each part. He might take pictures or video tape the inner parts of airways. Certain tissue samples are taken to detect the cause of the condition. Bronchoscope is gently removed after the procedure.
Risks of Rigid Bronchoscopy:
Though the risks are uncommon, there are some possible side effects and risks of rigid bronchoscopy. These include:
- Pain and irritation
- Bleeding
- Pneumothorax
- Perforation
People with the following conditions should not undergo rigid bronchoscopy.
- Back problems, like problem in spine bones
- Unstable and uncontrolled hear beat
- Face, neck or jaw injuries
