Bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows your respiratory specialist to observe the insides of your respiratory tract. Bronchoscopies are often used in the diagnosis of various respiratory conditions such as haemoptysis (coughing up blood), interstitial lung disease (ILD), lung nodules, pleural effusion, and pneumonia.
A long, thin tube, also known as a bronchoscope, with a light and camera attached at one end is inserted into your nose or mouth and gently guided down your trachea (windpipe) and into the lower respiratory tract. There are two types of bronchoscopes:
A balloon bronchoscopy is a gentle, less traumatic way of opening up the narrowed wind pipes. It can be used with both flexible and rigid bronchoscopes.
Balloon dilatation via bronchoscopy is done by passing a small deflated balloon in to the narrowed wind pipes and inflating it. The inflation of the balloon helps to stretch open the narrowed wind pipe. Balloons are made of silicone, available in 3 different sizes, and uses radial pressure to open up airways.
You may feel a bit groggy after the procedure, so you will be monitored for a few hours to ensure that you recover well. A chest x-ray might be performed after the balloon bronchoscopy to ensure that no damage was done to your lungs.
Your throat might still feel numb from the numbing medicine so you will not be allowed to eat or drink until you recover. Your respiratory specialist will advise you on when you may return to your normal activities and diet.
A balloon bronchoscopy is required for individuals with collapsed or blocked and obstructed airways, such as:
Before the procedure, you must avoid eating and drinking for 6-12 hours and you may be required to stop certain medications such as blood thinners and aspirin. Either a sedative or general anaesthesia will be used during the procedure, depending on your preference and advice of your respiratory specialist.
There are minimal to no risks or complications involved in a balloon bronchoscopy, however, if they do occur, this is what to look out for:
No, a balloon bronchoscopy is not painful as you will be sedated for the whole procedure. You may experience a mild sore throat, hoarseness, muscle aches, or a cough, but no pain.