Bronchoscopy

Medically reviewed by
Dr Archit Chawla
Respiratory & Sleep Physician
MBBS, FRACP
Last medically reviewed: March 2026

1) What is a bronchoscopy?

A bronchoscopy is a medical procedure that allows a doctor to look inside your airways (windpipe and lungs). It is done using a thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope, which has a light and camera at the end. Some types of bronchoscopes have an ultrasound probe on the end to help see structures like lymph nodes.
A bronchoscopy can help diagnose lung problems such as infections, inflammation, bleeding, or abnormal growths, and can sometimes be used to take small tissue samples (biopsies) or remove mucus or foreign material.

2) What happens during a bronchoscopy?

The procedure is usually done in a hospital.

• You will be asked not to eat or drink for several hours beforehand.
• Before the test, you will receive medication to help you relax. Your throat and nose are numbed with local anaesthetic spray. You are usually sedated or completely asleep for the procedure.
• The bronchoscope is gently passed through your nose or mouth, down the throat, and into the lungs.
• You will be able to breathe normally, but you may feel pressure or a need to cough.
• If needed, small samples of tissue or fluid may be taken.
• The procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes, though it may take longer in some cases.

Your oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure will be monitored throughout.

3) Recovering from a bronchoscopy

After the procedure, you will be monitored until the sedative wears off.

• Your throat may feel sore or numb for a few hours.
• You should not eat or drink until the numbness has gone (usually 1–2 hours).
• Mild coughing, hoarseness, or a small amount of blood in your sputum can be normal.
• Because of sedation, do not drive, operate machinery, or sign important documents for 24 hours.
• Most people can return to normal activities the next day.

Your doctor will discuss any results with you, though biopsy results may take several days.

4) Risks of a bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy is generally safe, but like all medical procedures, it carries some risks.

Possible risks include:

• Sore throat or hoarse voice
• Bleeding (especially if a biopsy is taken)
• Infection
• Low oxygen levels during the procedure
• Rarely, damage to the airway or lung collapse (pneumothorax)

Your healthcare team will take steps to minimise these risks and will discuss any concerns with you before the procedure.

If you have questions or feel unwell after your bronchoscopy (such as worsening breathlessness, chest pain, fever, or heavy bleeding), contact your healthcare provider immediately.