Bronchoscopy is best described as which of the following?

• A. Performed outpatient without prep
• B. Visualizes bronchial tree and can obtain biopsy; requires general or local anesthetic; cannot eat or drink before.
• C. It is non-invasive and can be done without anesthesia
• D. Only clears mucus but cannot biopsy

Answer: (B)

Bronchoscopy is an invasive procedure that uses a bronchoscope to visualize the airways and can obtain tissue biopsies. Because a scope is inserted into the respiratory tract, it typically requires anesthesia or sedation (local or general), and the patient is usually instructed not to eat or drink for a period before the procedure to reduce the risk of aspiration. It’s commonly done on an outpatient basis with appropriate pre-procedure preparation. It’s more than just clearing mucus; it allows direct viewing of the bronchial tree and the collection of biopsy or other specimens to help diagnose conditions like infections, inflammation, tumors, or to guide treatment.