How is bronchoscopy used to look for lung cancer?

Bronchoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the bronchial tissues of the lungs for signs of cancer. During the examination, a bronchoscope—a lighted instrument—is passed through the nose or mouth to provide direct visualization of the trachea and the large airways of the lungs.12

This procedure serves several critical functions in the context of lung cancer:

• Direct Visualization: Physicians use the bronchoscope to view the bronchi directly to identify potential cancerous growths or abnormalities.2
• Tissue Collection: Bronchoscopes are equipped with a channel that allows for the passage of instruments to perform a biopsy, which involves collecting small tissue fragments for histological study to confirm a diagnosis.13
• Therapeutic Intervention: In cases where cancerous growths block the airways, bronchoscopy may be used to assist in the placement of stents or to resect (remove) diseased tissue. Some specialized applications, such as laser bronchoscopy, allow for the resection of tissue using a rigid bronchoscope.1

While effective, the procedure carries risks, including bleeding, pneumothorax, and the potential introduction of infection if the instrument is not properly sanitized.1