I was told I need a bronchoscopy is it really necessary

Posted by kimrusso1624 @kimrusso1624, Sep 16 1:48pm

I am 86 years old I was told I need a broncoscopy is it really necessary? I had a CT scan a PET scan , I passed the breathing test but now the doctor said I need a bronchoscopy because I am old I don't want to go under anesthesia is there any other remedy for this condition? Thank you

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the MAC & Bronchiectasis Support Group.

scoop | @scoop | Sep 16 2:41pm

Can you produce a sputum sample? That might avoid the scope if they suspect a pathogen is lurking. If they want to biopsy a specific area bronchoscopy is the only way.

mokie | @mokie | Sep 17 7:28am

The sputum and CT should verify what's happening in the lungs. I had a bronchoscopy, and the doctor punctured my lung (it's called a pneumothorax). He already knew from the CT what I had.