Endoscopy

Bronchoscopy is a minimal invasive medical procedure that uses a bronchoscope to exam the inside of lungs and airways. It is useful for the diagnosis of: 

Diagnosis 

• Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS): for the diagnosis of lesions in the trachea or mediastinum; it is especially important for the staging of lung cancer
• Navigation Bronchoscopy: for planning the optimal airway routes leading to peripheral airway lesions based on CT scan imaging reconstruction, and for precise guidance for tissue extraction during biopsy
• Radial-probe Endobronchial Ultrasound: for locating the lesion accurately with endoscopic ultrasound before taking biopsy, thereby enhancing the detection and diagnostic rate
• Fibreoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES): for direct visualisation of swallowing assessment with the assistance of a speech therapist on-site
• Autofluorescence Bronchoscopy: for the diagnosis of early-stage lung cancer in the airways

Treatment 

• Cryotherapy: for treatment of lung cancer in the airways or removal of foreign bodies in the airways
• Laser Surgery, Argon Plasma Coagulation (APC), Stent Placement and Brachytherapy: for treatment of tumours obstructing the trachea or major airways
• Bronchial Thermoplasty: suitable for certain patients with severe asthma by reducing frequency of asthmatic attacks and improving quality of life
• Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction (BLVR): by using one-way endobronchial valve or endobronchial steam/vapour to shrink the damaged lobe/segment thereby enhancing lung function and quality of life
• One-way Endobronchial Valves: for treatment of pneumothorax with persistent air leak