Bronchoscopy Feedback

Posted by AZ @equanimous, Jun 24, 2023

I am scheduled for a bronchoscopy on July 3. I only had one so far and it was not a great experience. When I was on the table, I am guessing they started the sedation. But, when they were trying to put the tube down my throat, I felt like I was choking and, in response, I was pushing the provider's hand away. It was an automatic reaction and I did not mean to be difficult. My pulmonologist got quite curt with me and let me know she was perturbed. They finally got it down and next thing I knew I woke up and it was over.

I am wondering is if it is possible that they started a bit too early, before the sedation took full effect, which caused my choking reaction? Has anyone had this experience?

I am dreading this appointment and am hoping my 7/3 procedure will be better. But, if this is the way it goes, I will try to prep myself mentally beforehand.

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Profile picture for lvalenti @lvalenti

I don’t think it’s typical at all. I don’t blame you for being concerned. I’ve had two bronchoscopies and never experienced any discomfort. I would definitely talk your doctor and the anesthesiologist about your experience to make sure that never happens again. Good Luck.

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Only go where they do dozens a month. I believe it is best to have latest technology i.e. robotic bronchoscopy. Only go where they have latest technology. Virginia Mason in Seattle is one of six centers of excellence for robotic bronchioscope.

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Hi there Arlo,
I had an experience very similar to yours. The issue for me was the sedation not being the right amount and the person managing the tube was an inexperienced resident. Prior to the procedure, I was also treated as if I had TB and isolated in a tiny room. It was decided that I would be the last patient of the day which meant I waited almost 3 hours for my procedure.
Might not have my next bronc at this facility in the future.

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I'm sorry it went like that for you. I was out when they put the tube in, or at least out of it. I hope it went better. I will look and see if you posted anything about it.

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Profile picture for gjaleski @gjaleski

Goto a center of excellence where they do several a day. My research makes me believe that a robotic bronchoscopy is the safest and least invasive and yielding the best biopsies. I went to Virginia Mason in Seattle. It was a great procedure with zero complications.

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@gjaleski
Hi, what type of center of excellence would I be trying to find for lungs?
I found one in Tulsa for vascular.
Would be grateful for any help.

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Profile picture for teedlum @teedlum

@gjaleski
Hi, what type of center of excellence would I be trying to find for lungs?
I found one in Tulsa for vascular.
Would be grateful for any help.

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@teedlum When we talk of Center of Excellence here we are usually discussing our Bronchiectasis diagnosis and infections that we have with the BE.
You mentioned finding a center of excellence for your lungs.
What is your lung diagnosis?
Are you in Oklahoma.
I am in Oklahoma City seeing a doctor, pulmonologist, at OU for the Bronchiectasis. OU is not, as yet, a Center of Excellence for Bronchiectasis. However, they are doing their best to put a team together for those of us with BE.
Barbara

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I'm guessing the anesthesiologist (sp?) might have been the problem. I've had 3-4 during my lifetime and 3 weeks ago while in hospital had 2 in one week. Never a problem with any of them.

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I have had two bronchiectasis scopes and here they do no put me to sleep. only numbs my throat. Not a good experience, but I now go to university of Texas in Tyler, tx and they are wonderful. they do a breathing treatment and have me breathing in and out of a tube and pounding (doesn't hurt) on my back to help me cough up a sample for them to test. Unbelieveable how the drs here know nothing about this. they only want to do the scope ($$$).

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That sounds awful, and your pulmonologist’s reaction is inexcusable. Do you live near a Center of Excellence? Maybe this is a good push to change your medical team. Good luck!

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