Endoscopic Studies I: Bronchoscopy and Thoracoscopy

Bronchoscopy enables direct visualization of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi using a flexible fiber-optic or rigid bronchoscope. The fiber-optic bronchoscope is preferred due to its flexibility, small size, and excellent optical system, allowing increased visualization of peripheral airways. This visualization supports both diagnostic assessment and therapeutic interventions.

Diagnostic bronchoscopy visualizes tissues, determines pathologic processes, collects secretions for analysis, and obtains tissue samples for diagnosis. Therapeutic bronchoscopy removes foreign bodies and secretions, controls bleeding, treats atelectasis, destroys lesions, provides brachytherapy, and inserts stents to relieve airway obstruction. Both procedures use the same equipment but serve distinct clinical purposes.

Patients must abstain from food and drink for at least 6 hours before bronchoscopy to decrease the risk of aspiration. After the procedure, patients should remain NPO until the cough reflex returns, ensuring airway protection during recovery. This precaution prevents aspiration of gastric contents during sedation and the procedure.

Nurses should monitor for hypoxia, hypotension, tachycardia, arrhythmias, hemoptysis, and dyspnea following bronchoscopy. Vital signs and respiratory status require continuous assessment, with abnormalities reported promptly. These complications can indicate adverse reactions to sedation, airway trauma, or bleeding during the procedure.

Thoracoscopy examines the pleural cavity by inserting an endoscope through small incisions in an intercostal space, whereas bronchoscopy visualizes airways through the nose, mouth, tracheostomy, or artificial airway. Thoracoscopy evaluates pleural effusions, tumors, and collects fluid and tissue samples. A chest tube may be inserted post-thoracoscopy for lung re-expansion.

Postoperatively, nurses must monitor vital signs, pain level, and respiratory status. The incisional site requires assessment for bleeding and infection. Shortness of breath may indicate pneumothorax and should be reported immediately. Chest tube monitoring and drainage system assessment are essential for proper lung re-expansion and patient safety.

Thoracoscopy evaluates pleural effusions and pleural disease, stages tumors, and obtains fluid and tissue samples for analysis. If fluid is present, it is aspirated and sent for culture and sensitivity testing. Future applications include laser treatment of pulmonary nodules and other growths, making thoracoscopy valuable for comprehensive respiratory diagnosis.