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Bronchoscopy

Learn about the medical procedure that examines the main air passages of the lungs.

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What we do

A bronchoscopy is a medical procedure performed by a respirologist to examine the main air passages of the lungs. 

What to expect

During the procedure, a thin flexible tube with a camera, called a scope, is inserted into either your mouth or nose and carefully passed down through the throat and into your lungs. This allows the respirologist to look at the lining of the air passages and take pictures for examination.  

In some cases, a small tissue sample, called a biopsy, may be collected for further analysis.

Bronchoscopies help diagnose and monitor various lung conditions including:

  • Lung disease
  • Tumours
  • Infections
  • Chronic coughs

The type of sedative used during a bronchoscopy may vary depending on your individual needs. It is important to have someone who can bring you home after the procedure, as the sedative effects can impair your ability to travel safely. 

What to bring

  • Health (OHIP) card or valid health-care coverage
  • Someone to help you get home, as the sedation may impair your ability to travel safely 

How to access our services

You need a referral from a health-care provider to be seen at Endoscopy. Visit our referral criteria for more information. 

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