Rigid Bronchoscopy & Therapeutic Procedure in Delhi

Therapeutic Rigid Bronchoscopy

Rigid bronchoscopy is a medical procedure in which a straight, hollow metal tube (rigid bronchoscope) is inserted through the mouth into the windpipe and major airways. It is performed under the effect of general anesthesia and allows the doctor to do more complex airway procedures, especially when large instruments are needed.

Why is it Done?

Rigid bronchoscopy is usually chosen for:

Removing large airway blockages i.e. foreign bodies, tumors, thick mucus plugs.
Controlling major airway bleeding (hemoptysis).
Placing airway stents in cases of narrowing (tracheal/bronchial stenosis).
Dilation of narrowed airways (balloon or mechanical dilation).
Resection (cutting) of airway tumors.
Taking large biopsies for diagnosis.
Managing complex airway injuries.
It is especially useful in emergency situations where a flexible scope is not enough.

Symptoms

Sudden or severe breathing difficulty due to blockage.
Persistent cough or wheezing due to airway obstruction.
Coughing blood in large amounts.
Recurrent pneumonia due to airway narrowing.
Unexplained lung collapse.

How to Prepare for the test?

You have to do fasting for at least 6–8 hours before the procedure.
Pre-procedure chest X-ray or CT scan.
Blood tests to check clotting.
Inform doctor about blood thinners or allergies.
General anesthesia consultation.

How is it Done?

Patient is given general anesthesia to fall asleep and pain-free.
A rigid bronchoscope is gently passed through the mouth into the trachea.
A light source and camera allow the doctor to see inside the airways clearly.

Depending on the purpose:
Foreign body removal using forceps or baskets
Tumor removal using laser, electrocautery, or cryotherapy
Stent placement to keep airway open
Biopsy of abnormal growth
Once completed, the bronchoscope is removed, and patient is observed until fully awake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How is it different from flexible bronchoscopy?

Rigid bronchoscopy allows larger instruments and better control in emergencies, but requires anesthesia.

2. Will I feel anything during the procedure?

No, it is done under general anesthesia, so you will be asleep.

3. How long does it take?

Usually 30–60 minutes, but can be longer for complex procedures.

4. Is it safe for children?

Yes, it’s often the preferred method to remove foreign bodies in children.