Surgery is performed with a flexible bronchoscope, an optical instrument with a lighted tip. Foreign matter that has been inhaled accidentally. Bleeding in the bronchial tubes. Alcoholism or chronic illness. The bronchoscope is inserted in the mouth, past the back of the tongue, into the main bronchial tube and its branches.
Supplemental oxygen is supplied during procedure.
Foreign matter is removed, if necessary. Tissue is gathered and secretions are collected. The bronchoscope is removed. Infection in lung or bronchial tubes. Injury to wall of a bronchus.