Flexible bronchoscopy uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the airways and investigate lung conditions. It may be recommended for persistent respiratory symptoms, airway abnormalities, infections or suspicious imaging findings. During the procedure, doctors may collect fluid or tissue samples to support diagnosis and treatment planning.
Rigid bronchoscopy uses a specialised straight instrument to access and treat selected airway conditions. It may be used for central airway obstruction, removal of foreign bodies or certain therapeutic interventions. The procedure generally requires anaesthesia and careful monitoring by a specialist team.
Airway stenting involves placing a specialised tube inside a narrowed airway to help maintain airflow. It may be considered for selected patients with airway obstruction caused by tumours, scarring or other structural problems. The procedure requires appropriate airway assessment and follow-up for potential complications.
Bronchoscopic cryobiopsy uses a specialised probe that freezes lung tissue to obtain samples for pathological examination. It may be considered in selected patients with interstitial lung disease when a tissue diagnosis is needed. Because bleeding and pneumothorax can occur, patient selection and procedural expertise are important.
Argon plasma coagulation is a bronchoscopic technique that uses ionised argon gas to deliver controlled electrical energy to airway tissue. It may be used to manage selected endobronchial lesions or bleeding. Treatment suitability depends on the airway condition, oxygen requirements and procedural safety considerations.
Bronchoscopic laser therapy uses focused energy to treat selected tissue abnormalities within the airways. It may be considered for certain obstructing lesions requiring restoration of airway patency. The procedure is performed by trained specialists using appropriate monitoring and precautions to minimise airway injury.
Medical thoracoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the pleural cavity surrounding the lungs. It can help investigate unexplained pleural effusions and certain pleural diseases. Tissue samples may be collected, and selected therapeutic interventions can be performed depending on the diagnosis.
Interstitial lung disease describes a group of disorders affecting lung tissue and the spaces around the air sacs. Symptoms often include breathlessness and persistent dry cough. Evaluation may involve high-resolution CT, lung function tests and specialist investigations to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Pulmonary fibrosis involves scarring of lung tissue, which can reduce lung flexibility and oxygen transfer. Management depends on the underlying condition and may include antifibrotic medication for eligible patients, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation and monitoring. Treatment aims to reduce progression and manage symptoms.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a long-term condition associated with persistent airflow limitation, breathlessness, cough and sputum production. Management includes smoking cessation, inhaled medication, vaccinations and pulmonary rehabilitation. Patients with severe exacerbations may require hospital monitoring and respiratory support.
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disorder that can cause wheezing, breathlessness, coughing and chest tightness. Diagnosis may involve lung function testing and assessment of symptom patterns. Treatment commonly includes inhaled medications, education on inhaler technique, trigger management and personalised action plans.
Fungal lung infections can affect individuals with weakened immunity or underlying lung diseases. Symptoms may include cough, fever, breathlessness and chest discomfort. Diagnosis may require imaging, laboratory testing and microbiological investigations. Treatment depends on the fungus involved and may include antifungal medicines and management of associated conditions.
Sleep-related breathing disorders include obstructive sleep apnea and other conditions that disturb normal breathing during sleep. Symptoms may include loud snoring, interrupted breathing and daytime sleepiness. Evaluation can involve sleep studies, and management may include positive airway pressure therapy or other interventions.
Mechanical ventilation provides breathing assistance to patients with severe respiratory failure or an inability to breathe adequately without support. Non-invasive or invasive techniques may be used according to clinical circumstances. Treatment requires continuous monitoring and adjustment based on oxygenation, ventilation and the patient's underlying illness.
Pulmonary function tests assess how effectively the lungs move air and exchange gases. Investigations such as spirometry help evaluate airflow obstruction and monitor respiratory conditions. These measurements are interpreted alongside symptoms, clinical history and imaging to guide diagnosis and management.
Acute respiratory failure occurs when the respiratory system cannot maintain adequate oxygen levels or remove carbon dioxide effectively. Causes include severe pneumonia, COPD exacerbations and other critical illnesses. Management focuses on treating the underlying cause and providing oxygen or ventilatory support when required.