What is flexible bronchoscopy?

Flexible bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedure using a thin, flexible tube with a camera (bronchoscope) to view a child’s airways. It allows real-time visualization from the nose and throat down into the trachea and bronchi, enabling detailed assessment of airway anatomy and function.

Which airway areas can flexible bronchoscopy examine in children?

Flexible bronchoscopy visualizes:

• Nose and nasal passages
• Back of the nose and throat (nasopharynx)
• Larynx (voice box) and vocal cords
• Trachea (windpipe)
• Bronchi (airway branches in the lungs)

The procedure evaluates airway structure, observes any obstruction, inflammation, anatomic abnormalities, or presence of foreign bodies.

When is flexible bronchoscopy indicated in paediatric and neonatal patients?

Common clinical situations requiring flexible bronchoscopy include:

• Noisy breathing or stridor without clear cause
• Persistent or recurrent pneumonia
• Repeated episodes of wheezing not responding to standard treatment
• Chronic or unexplained cough
• Suspected foreign body aspiration
• Evaluation of suspected congenital airway abnormalities such as tracheomalacia or bronchomalacia
• Investigations in children with suspected or persistent tuberculosis
• Assessment of respiratory complications in immunocompromised children

Learn more about - Top 5 Symptoms of Pneumonia You Should Not Ignore and Effective Home Remedies for Cough & Dry Cough.

How should children be prepared for flexible bronchoscopy?

Proper preparation helps ensure safety and success:

• Medical history review and physical examination by the pediatric pulmonologist
• Fasting (nil per os) typically for at least 3 hours before the procedure to reduce risk of aspiration
• Sedation or general anesthesia is planned based on age, condition, and procedure complexity
• Intravenous access (IV line) is established for medications and anesthesia
• Parents will be counseled about the procedure, possible risks, and post-procedure care

How is flexible bronchoscopy performed safely for paediatric patients?

• The bronchoscope is gently inserted through the child’s nose (or mouth if necessary) and advanced carefully into the airways under sedation or anesthesia.
• High-quality video images enable detailed airway examination.
• Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), the collection of fluid samples from lungs, may be performed when infections or other diseases are suspected.
• The procedure lasts approximately 10-15 minutes; monitoring is continual for oxygen levels, heart rate, and comfort.
• Interventions such as suctioning mucus, foreign body removal, or biopsies can be performed during the procedure if indicated.

What are the risks and possible complications of flexible bronchoscopy in children?

While generally safe, potential complications include:

• Transient oxygen desaturation (low blood oxygen), usually manageable and temporary
• Minor nosebleeds
• Mild throat discomfort or hoarseness after the procedure
• Rarely, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, or apnea may occur, requiring immediate medical intervention
• Serious complications like pneumothorax (collapsed lung) are very rare

Expert care and monitoring at centers like BLK-Max Hospital minimize these risks.

What can parents expect after the procedure?

• After bronchoscopy, your child’s health will be observed until sedation effects wear off (commonly 12 hours).
• Oral feeding can resume once medically cleared.
• Mild throat discomfort or cough may occur but typically resolves quickly.
• Most children resume normal activities within a day.
• The pulmonologist will discuss findings and treatment plans based on bronchoscopy results.

Why choose BLK-Max Hospital for paediatric bronchoscopy services?

• Comprehensive, child-friendly bronchoscopy service dedicated to neonates and children
• Use of the latest Olympus video bronchoscopes covering all pediatric age groups
• Advanced diagnostic and interventional bronchoscopy techniques, including foreign body removal, transbronchial lung biopsy, cryobiopsy, and endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)
• 24/7 availability of bronchoscopy services with experienced pediatric pulmonologists and anesthesiologists
• Commitment to minimally invasive, safe, and effective care tailored to each child’s needs

Is flexible bronchoscopy safe for children?

Yes, it is a safe, minimally invasive procedure when conducted by experienced pediatric pulmonologists using sedation or anesthesia to ensure comfort.

How long does the procedure take?

Typically 10-15 minutes, with total time (including preparation and recovery) lasting 1-2 hours.

What are the potential risks?

Complications are rare, including transient oxygen desaturation, mild nasal bleeding, or throat discomfort. All risks are closely monitored and managed.

How soon can my child resume normal activities?

Most children return to usual activities within 24 hours after bronchoscopy.

Is the procedure painful?

No, sedation or anesthesia ensures the procedure is painless and comfortable.