Bronchoscopy at Spire Bristol Hospital

Your doctor might suggest you have a bronchoscopy if you have had a chronic cough, you're coughing up blood or they saw something unexplained on an X-ray.

Doctors may also use a bronchoscopy for treatment, for example, to place a stent to open constricted airways or to remove foreign objects.

We pride ourselves on our clinical excellence, you'll be looked after by an experienced multi-disciplinary care team.

Our patients are at the heart of what we do and we want you to be in control of your care. To us, that means you can choose the consultant you want to see, and when you want. They'll be with you every step of the way.

All of our consultants are of the highest calibre and benefit from working in our modern, well-equipped hospitals.

Our consultants have high standards to meet, often holding specialist NHS posts and delivering expertise in complex sub-specialty surgeries. Many of our consultants have international reputations for their research in their specialised field.

You will need a referral letter from a consultant or GP before booking any diagnostic investigation.

You will have a formal consultation with a healthcare professional. During this time you will be able to explain your medical history, symptoms and raise any concerns that you might have.

We will also discuss with you whether any further diagnostic tests, such as scans or blood tests, are needed. Any additional costs will be discussed before further tests are carried out.

We've tried to make your experience with us as easy and relaxed as possible.

For more information on visiting hours, our food, what to pack if you're staying with us, parking and all those other important practicalities, please visit our patient information pages.

Our dedicated team will also give you tailored advice to follow in the run up to your visit.

The test is carried out under sedation using a flexible endoscope (telescope), which is passed through your nose or mouth, past the voice box and windpipe and into the branches of your airways.

During this process, doctors can see the inside of the airways including the voice box and windpipe and take a biopsy of any areas that appear abnormal.

After this, you will be taken to your room or comfortable area where you can rest and recuperate until we feel you’re ready to go home. You can normally return home the same day.

The consultant who performed your procedure will give the results to you. They will also discuss with you if any follow-up treatment or further appointments are needed.​

Looking after you

On rare occasions, complications following a bronchoscopy can occur.

Your consultant will talk to you about the possible risks and complications of having this procedure and how they apply to you.

If you have any questions or concerns, we’re ready to help.

We are committed to delivering excellent individual care and customer service across our network of hospitals, clinics and specialist care centres around the UK. Our dedicated and highly trained team aim to achieve consistently excellent results. For us it's more than just treating patients, it's about looking after people.

Important to note

The treatment described on this page may be adapted to meet your individual needs, so it's important to follow your healthcare professional's advice and raise any questions that you may have with them.