Have you ever heard of the term balloon bronchoscopy? A medical procedure performed to help patients with respiratory problems. In examining the respiratory tract, doctors use a tool called a bronchoscope. To understand more about balloon bronchoscopy, see the explanation in this article.
Get to Know What Bronchoscopy Is
Bronchoscopy is a procedure performed to view the respiratory tract or the inner lungs. Bronchoscopy is commonly used to determine the cause of respiratory problems such as coughing up blood (hemoptitis), pleural effusion, lung nodules, interstitial lung disease, and pneumonia.
The instrument used by the doctor is called a bronchoscope, which is a thin tube with a small camera on the end. This instrument is inserted through the nose or mouth and slowly guided down the windpipe (trachea) into the respiratory tract.
In medical procedures, there are two types of bronchoscopes, including:
1. Rigid Bronchoscope
This is a larger, more rigid tube-shaped instrument. It is usually used for more complex procedures, such as removing foreign objects from the respiratory tract or treating bleeding. Because of its rigid shape, it is usually used while the patient is under general anesthesia.
2. Flexible Bronchoscope
This tool has a thinner and more flexible shape, making it more comfortable to insert through the nose or mouth. Flexible bronchoscopes are more often used to view the inner respiratory tract, take tissue samples, or diagnose diseases.
Meanwhile, balloon bronchoscopy is an effort made gently to open narrowed airways, so that patients can breathe more easily.
How Balloon Bronchoscopy Works
Balloon bronchoscopy works by opening up narrowed airways using a small balloon that is inflated inside the airway. Here are the steps and how it works:
- Patient Preparation: Before the procedure begins, the patient is first given anesthesia to make them feel more relaxed and comfortable.
- Inserting the Bronchoscope: The doctor will slowly insert the bronchoscope through the nose or mouth and then direct it down the windpipe and into the lower respiratory tract.
- Finding Narrowed Areas: Once the bronchoscope is in the airway, the doctor will look for narrowed or blocked areas.
- Inserting the Balloon: After finding the narrowed area, the doctor will insert a small balloon through the bronchoscope. This balloon is very flexible, so it can fit into small airways.
- Inflating the Balloon: Once the balloon is in the narrowed area, the doctor will begin to gently inflate the balloon. The balloon will expand slowly, widening the narrowed part of the airway. This process usually takes about 2 minutes and is repeated until the airway is completely widened.
- Deflating and Removing the Balloon: Once the airway is open, the balloon is deflated and removed from the body. The previously narrowed airway is now wider, allowing the patient to breathe better.
- Removing the Bronchoscope: If it is felt that the airway has been appropriately widened, the bronchoscope is removed.
What Do Patients Feel After Balloon Bronchoscopy?
After the balloon bronchoscopy procedure is complete, the patient will usually be monitored to make sure everything is going well. Because the procedure is performed under anesthesia, the patient may feel a little drowsy or have discomfort in the throat, but these effects usually disappear after a few hours.
Patients may also experience a slight cough or hoarseness, but this is normal and will resolve on its own. The doctor will tell you what to avoid, such as food or drink for a few hours after the procedure, to give your throat time to heal. In addition, a chest X-ray may be performed to make sure the lungs are in good condition and there is no damage.
However, in general, patients will feel more relieved after undergoing balloon bronchoscopy. This is because the narrowed airways have opened and breathing becomes easier.
Balloon bronchoscopy is an effective method to treat the problem of narrowing of the airways. This medical procedure helps to open the blocked airways and makes breathing easier and more comfortable. However, it is important to maintain your respiratory health and not wait until the problem becomes more serious. If you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, persistent cough, or difficulty breathing, consult a doctor immediately. Early treatment of the problem can prevent complications and ensure lung health. Take care of your health and have regular check-ups for a healthier and more comfortable life.
Article written by Dr. dr. Arief Riadi Arifin, Sp.P (K), MARS, FISR (Pulmonary & Respiratory Specialist, EMC Pulomas Hospital).