Introduction

Arrangements have been made for you to have a Bronchoscopy/EBUS. This test is done by using a thin flexible tube like camera to look into the main airway of your lungs.

Please report to Reception Desk in the Endoscopy Unit, Level One, Royal Albert Edward Infirmary Wigan.

Date:......................................................................   Time:......................……

NB: On Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday your procedure will normally be scheduled to take place between 08:30 until 13:30pm for the morning list. The Monday afternoon list will take place between13:30pm until16:30pm. We also may have Friday afternoon lists from 13:30pm to 16:30pm

We are unable to guarantee a specific start time for your procedure due to operational reasons. Staff will keep you informed of any delays or waiting times.

Preparation

On the day of your bronchoscopy/EBUS, your safety is vital. To ensure a safe procedure we recommend that you:

• Have nothing to eat or drink for four hours prior to your appointment time.
• Essential medication for such conditions as raised blood pressure or heart conditions can be taken with very small sips of water 

It is also compulsory to:

1  Have a friend or relative to escort you from the unit to your home. 

2  Have someone with you overnight.

3  Not drive a car or operate machinery for 24 hours following Bronchoscopy

(1, 2 & 3 are legal requirements because the sedation you may have been given will remain in your system for 24 hours) 

You may be instructed to stop some of your medicines before the bronchoscopy (for example Aspirin, Clopidogrel, Warfarin)

What is a bronchoscopy?

This is an examination of the air passages. During the procedure small pieces of tissue (a biopsy) may be taken from the air passages. Any specimens taken are sent to the laboratory for analysis. 

On arrival at the Endoscopy Unit, a Nurse will ask you a few questions (e.g. about any allergies) and ensure your fitness for the procedure.

Will I be awake during the bronchoscopy?

You are not fully asleep during the procedure but you will be offered adequate sedation. The sedation used and type of anaesthesia will be discussed with you either today when we are telling you about the impending procedure or on the day of the test.

What happens during a bronchoscopy?

The doctor will use a local anaesthetic spray to numb the airways and this may taste and feel unpleasant. Some clinicians may use an anaesthetic injection in the lower part of your neck. While this can be extremely unpleasant initially, it will serve to settle your cough reflex more effectively during the procedure. You will usually be given sedation to help you to relax. This is given as an injection into a vein in your arm. The doctor passes the bronchoscope through your nostrils or your mouth and down into the back of your throat before entering the windpipe (trachea). 

Occasionally, if you have narrow nasal passages, we will go through the mouth to the back of the throat. Once in the main airways, the doctor can inspect all large airways and take any necessary samples. The procedure usually lasts 20-30 minutes.

Benefit of the procedure

The benefit is to be able to look into the airways of the lungs and take a biopsy for analysis.

Risks

The procedure is straightforward and performed routinely by the doctors. A common symptom after the procedure is coughing up blood, especially if biopsies have been taken during the procedure. This will usually last for a few hours and should settle spontaneously. Other, rarer, complications include a reaction to sedation, infection and, very rarely, a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) if a lung biopsy is taken (if you have this type of biopsy then a chest x-ray is done before you go home). You may be kept in for observation if such a complication arises as a result of the test.

Alternative

There is no alternative to this procedure.

After the procedure

After the procedure, you will spend some time in the recovery room. Once you have recovered you will be given light refreshments. Once at home you may eat and drink as normal.

You will usually be able to go home approximately one hour after the procedure is completed. You will be expected to be at the hospital for 2-3 hours in total.   

Following the Bronchoscopy, you may experience some of the following mild symptoms:

• Nose bleed
• Sore throat
• Hoarse voice
• Drowsiness and slight unsteadiness on your feet (if you have sedation)

These symptoms should only be mild but if they cause concern or persist then please contact your GP. You will be provided with after care information and contact details should you have any queries or concerns. 

Results

You will be notified of the results of the bronchoscopy approximately within 2 weeks of having the procedure done. You will receive a clinic follow up appointment, a telephone call or a letter will be sent to your own GP.

Further information

If you would like further information contact your consultant’s secretary on 01942 822363 or the Bronchoscopy staff between:

8:30am and 4pm Monday to Friday on 01942 822847