Doctors recommend bronchoscopy for multiple reasons. Patients presenting with unexplained symptoms such as chronic cough, coughing up blood, or persistent infections often undergo this procedure for accurate evaluation. It also plays a critical role in detecting and managing conditions such as:

• Lung cancer: Identifying suspicious growths and taking biopsy samples.

• Infections: Diagnosing tuberculosis, pneumonia, or fungal infections.

• Airway obstructions: Locating blockages caused by tumors, mucus plugs, or foreign bodies.

• Chronic lung diseases: Assessing conditions like sarcoidosis or interstitial lung disease.

Beyond diagnosis, bronchoscopy also serves therapeutic purposes. Doctors can use it to remove foreign bodies, clear secretions, place stents in narrowed airways, or even deliver medications directly to diseased lung tissue.

Types of Bronchoscopy

Medical science recognizes two primary forms of bronchoscopy, each suited for specific clinical needs:

1. Flexible Bronchoscopy

This is the most commonly performed type. The flexible bronchoscope can easily navigate the branching structure of the bronchi, providing detailed images and allowing tissue sampling. Because it causes minimal discomfort, most patients tolerate it well under local anesthesia and mild sedation.

2. Rigid Bronchoscopy

Rigid bronchoscopy uses a straight, wider tube. It requires general anesthesia but offers advantages in specific scenarios. Surgeons prefer this approach when removing large foreign bodies, controlling significant bleeding, or inserting airway stents. Though less common, it remains indispensable in complex pulmonary cases.