Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a special scope is passed into the airway to allow your doctor to see the inside of your air passages and examine any abnormalities that may be present. Additionally, the bronchoscope has an open interior channel that can be used to remove secretions, obtain a tissue specimen for biopsy, and introduce a saline rinse into your lungs. Your physician watches the progress of the bronchoscope and examines lung structures on a small video monitor screen.

Bronchoscopy is considered primarily a diagnostic tool, but because the scope must be passed inside your body, you will undergo certain preparations. These include:

• No eating for six to 12 hours before the procedure.
• Local or general anesthesia, meaning you may or may not be awake during the procedure. 

If you are awake, you should know that the anesthetic agent will depress your cough and swallowing reflexes, you may also be given a sedative to help you relax. The bronchoscope may be inserted through either your mouth or your nose. A lubricant is used to help ease the passage of the bronchoscope. After the procedure, you will be cautioned not to eat or drink anything for about an hour because your swallowing and cough reflexes will still be depressed.