Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with transbronchial lung biopsy(s), single lobe
CPT4 code
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:
- Patient is administered local anesthetic and/or sedation.
- A bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth into the airways.
- The doctor examines the bronchial tubes.
- Guided by fluoroscopy if needed, the doctor uses special tools to take a tissue sample from a single lung lobe.
- 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.