What is bronchoscopy primarily used for?

Bronchoscopy is primarily used for the visual examination of the bronchi, which are the large air passages that lead from the trachea to the lungs. This procedure allows healthcare providers to directly observe the interior of the airways, including assessing for abnormalities such as inflammation, tumors, infection, or foreign bodies. The ability to see lesions or other changes in the bronchial tissue in real-time aids in diagnosis and treatment planning.

While it is true that bronchoscopy can facilitate the injection of certain medications or treatments, this is a secondary use and not the primary purpose of the procedure. Additionally, bronchoscopy is not intended for measuring lung volumes, which are usually assessed through pulmonary function tests, nor is it a method for providing oxygen therapy. The significance of bronchoscopy lies in its diagnostic capabilities and the management of conditions affecting the bronchial tubes.