How Long Does a Bronchoscopy Take

Procedure 

We begin the procedure by connecting you to sensors that monitor oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. After that, you’ll receive a numbing spray or gel in either your nose or mouth. This compound helps to make the insertion of the camera tube more pleasant. We then provide you with medicine that makes you more relaxed, usually through an IV drip. You won’t be unconscious – as you would be under a general anesthetic – but you will feel more comfortable. 

Once you’re ready, we will insert the bronchoscope and then investigate your lungs. The procedure usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes. 

Risks 

Medics consider bronchoscopy a safe procedure. However, there are risks. The most immediate is a reduction in oxygen saturation (where blood oxygen levels drop lower than they should). Further complications include bleeding, collapsed lung, or fever, though these are rare. 

Results 

At Cochise Oncology, we aim to provide you with accurate results from your test as rapidly as possible. You’ll receive updates as soon as we complete the analysis. 

Am I a Candidate for Bronchoscopy? 

There are several reasons people choose to get a bronchoscopy, often under the recommendation of their doctor. For instance, a medical practitioner might recommend visiting Cochise Oncology if you have trouble breathing or are coughing up blood. You may also receive a referral if something unusual showed up on your CT scan, or you have had many lung infections in the past. 

Bronchoscopy allows us to diagnose a wide variety of conditions that might be affecting your lungs, including blockages, tumors, infections, and the potential for lung collapse.