Bronchoscopy is a common procedure that will allow your specialist to look into your airways and lungs with a thin flexible plastic tube (called a bronchoscope). There is a camera at the end of the bronchoscope and the image is projected onto a screen. Bronchoscopy can be useful for diagnosing different lung conditions and to collect specimens for testing.
An EBUS (endobronchial ultrasound) is a special type of bronchoscopy which allows your specialist to take biopsies of lymph nodes or tissue close to the airway. An ultrasound at the end of the bronchoscope will allow your specialist to see the lymph nodes and a fine needle is then passed into the lymph node to obtain samples.
During bronchoscopy, you will receive an anaesthetic. The bronchoscope is then passed through the nose or mouth and through the voice box into your lungs. Depending on your condition and the specimens that are taken, the procedure will take around 30-60 minutes. Your specialist will provide you with more information about the procedure including preparation, risks and what not to do after the procedure.
