Name of the Procedure:

Bronchoscopy, Rigid or Flexible, including Fluoroscopic Guidance, when Performed; with Transbronchial Lung Biopsy(s), Single Lobe

Summary:

A bronchoscopy is a medical procedure where a doctor uses a device called a bronchoscope to look inside the lungs. This can be either a rigid or flexible tube, with a camera and light. Sometimes, X-ray (fluoroscopic guidance) is also used. During this procedure, a small tissue sample (biopsy) is taken from one lobe of the lung for examination.

Purpose:

This procedure helps diagnose and evaluate lung conditions such as infections, inflammation, tumors, or other abnormalities. The goal is to obtain a tissue sample for detailed analysis, which aids in accurate diagnosis and informed treatment decisions.

Indications:

• Persistent cough
• Abnormal chest X-ray or CT scan findings
• Suspected lung infection or tumor
• Unexplained lung symptoms
• Monitoring of lung conditions

Preparation:

• Fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjust or stop certain medications, as advised by the doctor.
• Complete necessary blood tests or imaging studies.

Procedure Description:

1. Patient is administered local anesthetic and/or sedation.
2. A bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth into the airways.
3. The doctor examines the bronchial tubes.
4. Guided by fluoroscopy if needed, the doctor uses special tools to take a tissue sample from a single lung lobe.
5. The scope is carefully removed.

Duration:

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting:

Performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center

Personnel:

• Pulmonologist or Thoracic Surgeon
• Nursing Staff
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation or general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications:

• Sore throat or hoarseness
• Bleeding from the biopsy site
• Infection
• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
• Reactions to sedation or anesthesia

Benefits:

• Precise diagnosis of lung issues
• Helps in developing a specific treatment plan
• Potentially life-saving by detecting serious conditions early

Recovery:

• Monitor for a few hours for any immediate complications.
• Mild discomfort or sore throat is common.
• Avoid heavy physical activity for a day or two.
• Follow-up appointment to discuss biopsy results.

Alternatives:

• CT-guided lung biopsy
• Percutaneous needle biopsy
• Observation and non-invasive imaging
• Each alternative has different risks, benefits, and suitability depending on the patient's condition.

Patient Experience:

During the procedure, patients may experience a sensation of pressure but should not feel pain due to sedation. Post-procedure discomfort is usually minimal and managed with mild pain relievers and throat lozenges.