Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used by a pediatric pulmonologist to examine a child’s airways and lungs. For many parents, the idea of their child undergoing such a procedure can feel overwhelming. Understanding what bronchoscopy is, why it is performed, and how it helps can make the experience more comfortable.
What is Bronchoscopy?
Bronchoscopy allows doctors to look directly inside a child’s airways (trachea and bronchi). In this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a light and a camera at its tip, a bronchoscope, is used. This tool helps doctors visualize the breathing passages, collect samples, and even treat certain conditions.
In children, a flexible bronchoscope is used, as it is smaller and gentler on the airways. In special cases, a rigid bronchoscope may be required, especially when removing a foreign object or controlling severe bleeding.
Why is Bronchoscopy Needed in Children?
A pediatric pulmonologist may recommend bronchoscopy for several reasons, such as:
- Persistent cough that does not improve with routine treatment.
- Recurrent or unexplained lung infections.
- Wheezing or noisy breathing not responding to standard therapies.
- Suspected foreign body (for example, a peanut or small toy) stuck in the airway.
- Congenital airway problems or abnormal findings on chest X-ray/CT scan.
- To take samples (mucus, tissue, or fluid) for lab testing.
Types of Bronchoscopies
Flexible Bronchoscopy: This uses a flexible bronchoscope and is used for diagnosis and sampling. It can be done under sedation or light anesthesia.
Rigid Bronchoscopy: This is usually performed under general anesthesia, and is done for removing foreign objects or performing therapeutic procedures.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Here is what parents can expect during bronchoscopy-
- The child is given sedation or anesthesia to ensure comfort.
- The bronchoscope is gently passed through the nose or mouth into the airway.
- The doctor inspects the breathing passages and may collect samples for testing.
- If a blockage or foreign object is found, it can often be removed during the same procedure.
The entire process typically lasts 30–60 minutes, depending on the reason for bronchoscopy.
Is Bronchoscopy Safe for Children?
A pediatric pulmonologist is an expert in performing bronchoscopy, and rigid bronchoscopy may also be performed by pediatric surgeons. These are trained pediatric super-specialists who understand the gentle handling of pediatric patients and do it with utmost safety.
Doctors carefully evaluate each child before recommending bronchoscopy, ensuring the benefits outweigh the risks.
How to prepare your child for a Bronchoscopy?
Fasting is required for a few hours before the procedure to reduce anesthesia-related risks. The medical team will explain the anesthesia process and expected recovery.
Parents are encouraged to bring comfort items (like a favorite toy or blanket) to help the child feel secure before the procedure.
Recovery
Most children do not experience any after effects and can go home the same day, once they are fully awake and stable. However, some may experience mild sore throat, cough, or hoarseness for a day or two.
Diet: Your child can start with sips of water once fully awake, then move on to soft foods as tolerated. Avoid hot or spicy foods for the first 24 hours to prevent throat irritation.
General care: Some mild cough or hoarseness is normal; encourage rest and plenty of fluids. Contact the doctor if your child develops breathing difficulty, persistent fever, or significant bleeding.
Bronchoscopy is an important tool in pediatric care, allowing doctors to diagnose and treat airway and lung conditions with precision. While the thought of your child undergoing a procedure can be stressful, bronchoscopy is generally safe, effective, and often provides answers that guide the best treatment plan.
Why choose Ankura?
Ankura Hospital for Women and Children has the best team of pediatric pulmonologists and all pediatric superspecialists who are committed to providing empathetic and quality care for babies and children. We offer the most advanced and world-class setup for pediatric pulmonology, where every child is treated with personalized care, clinical excellence, and compassion. Our multidisciplinary team is equipped to diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions of the lungs and airways. Be it a regular consultation or bronchoscopy in children, our expert team ensures safe, accurate, and child-friendly procedures using the latest technology in a comforting environment.
At Ankura, we believe in a family-centered approach, ensuring parents are involved in every step of the care process. With state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, child-friendly facilities, and 24/7 pediatric support, Ankura remains a trusted destination for children’s respiratory health.
FAQ’s for Bronchoscopy in Children: Types, Procedure, Uses, Risks and Recovery
No, the procedure is done under sedation or anesthesia, so your child will not feel pain. They may have a mild sore throat or cough afterward, which usually settles in a day or two.
Most children recover within a few hours and can go home the same day. Normal activities can usually be resumed the following day.
Once your child is fully awake and the throat numbness has worn off, they can start with sips of water, followed by soft, easy-to-swallow foods.
Seek medical help if your child develops breathing difficulty, persistent fever, significant bleeding, or worsening cough.
Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, which is spread across multiple locations in Hyderabad, has the presence of the best pediatric pulmonologists and pediatric surgeons. Ankura is also located in Khammam, Vijayawada, Tirupati, Pune, and Bhubaneswar.
