Does a pulmonology perform bronchoscopy?

Depending on the hospital and the purpose of the procedure, an interventional pulmonologist or another appropriately trained specialist may perform it. Anaesthesia, nursing, pathology, and imaging teams may also contribute.

A clinician passes a thin viewing instrument through the nose or mouth and into the breathing passages. This allows the airways to be inspected. The clinician may wash a small area, remove mucus, take a tissue sample, or use specialised guidance to reach a suspicious area. Sedation or anaesthesia is selected according to the planned procedure and your health.

Bronchoscopy can help investigate an abnormal scan, bleeding, infection, airway narrowing, or a possible tumour. A recommendation for the test does not by itself establish a cancer diagnosis; laboratory assessment of collected material may be needed.

Follow the unit's instructions about fasting and which medicines to take or pause. Make sure the team knows about blood-thinning medicines, diabetes treatment, allergies, pregnancy, breathing support, heart conditions, and previous reactions to sedation. Arrange transport home if sedation is planned, because driving afterward may be unsafe.

After bronchoscopy, follow the discharge instructions for eating, drinking, medicines, and activity. Seek urgent medical care for severe or worsening shortness of breath, chest pain, heavy or persistent bleeding from the mouth, fainting, or blue-grey lips. Contact the procedure team promptly about fever, increasing cough, or symptoms that are worsening rather than settling.

Ask what the clinician needs to inspect or sample, what type of sedation is planned, how your usual medicines should be handled, and when results may be discussed. Confirm whom to call after discharge and which symptoms should take you directly to emergency care.