Pediatric & Neonatal Flexible Bronchoscopy
What is Flexible Bronchoscopy?
Pediatric flexible bronchoscopy is a procedure used to examine a child’s airways (breathing passages) using a specialized tool called a flexible bronchoscope. This allows doctors to get a clear view of the airways from the inside.
How is Flexible Bronchoscopy Performed?
The flexible bronchoscope is a slender, tube-like device equipped with a light source. It is extremely thin, with a diameter of about 3.5 mm. Before the procedure, a local anesthetic is applied to the nose, and your child will receive sedation to help them rest comfortably. The bronchoscope is then gently passed through the nose, allowing visualization of specific areas of the lungs as needed.
Which Children May Need Flexible Bronchoscopy?
This procedure may be recommended if a child experiences recurrent wheezing, noisy breathing (stridor), persistent cough, ongoing lung infections, unusual findings on chest X-rays, suspected tuberculosis, or other respiratory concerns.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The procedure itself typically lasts between 5 and 10 minutes.
Is Flexible Bronchoscopy Safe? Are There Any Risks?
Flexible bronchoscopy is generally safe, with minimal risk involved. Rarely, children may experience reactions to the sedative medication, but we closely monitor each child to ensure their safety. Mild, temporary side effects, like increased wheezing or a brief fever, may occur after the procedure, but they typically resolve on their own. We will discuss potential risks with you in detail beforehand.
Preparing Your Child for the Procedure:
We usually ask parents to bring their child in early in the morning. It’s important that your child doesn’t eat or drink anything for at least four hours before the procedure. After the bronchoscopy, you can expect to be discharged later in the afternoon or evening.
