Cochise Oncology

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What is a Bronchoscopy?

Sometimes patients at Cochise Oncology experience problems with their lungs. When this happens, doctors will frequently examine them with a bronchoscope.

A bronchoscopy (which comes from the word “bronchial” or airway) is a diagnostic technique that involves inserting a thin tube called a bronchoscope through your nose or mouth and down into your airways.

The purpose of the procedure is to check your lungs and air passages for disorders. The bronchoscope allows doctors at Cochise Oncology to get a clear view of the tissue itself and determine whether you have a disease. Many patients receive bronchoscopies when x-ray technicians detect something unusual.

How is a Bronchoscopy Administered?

Before the procedure, doctors will administer a numbing agent to your mouth and throat. The purpose of this is to reduce any discomfort you might experience as the tube passes by. You may also receive gels that inhibit your gag reflex, again making the procedure more comfortable.

During the procedure, the doctor will insert a tube via the mouth or nose and then pass it down past the vocal cords into the lungs. Most procedures use a flexible tube that conforms to the shape of their body. However, if there is an object obstructing your airways, the doctor may use a rigid bronchoscope instead.

At the same time, doctors may administer oxygen, either through a nasal tube or face mask. They will then connect your monitoring equipment to track your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. The procedure can feel a little strange, but it doesn’t hurt.

Bronchoscopes have a camera and light on the end of them. These provide a video feed that appears on the doctor’s monitor. The doctor uses this output to look for possible signs of disease in real-time. They may also review recordings of their examinations later.

In some cases, doctors need to take tissue samples by passing a collecting device through the bronchoscope. For instance, if the doctor suspects cancer, they combine bronchoscopy with a biopsy.

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Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

Why Would You Get a Bronchoscopy?

There are multiple reasons why you might get a bronchoscopy at Cochise Oncology. These include:

If you have a persistent cough
If your doctor notices something unusual on a chest x-ray
If you suspect you have an infection
If they need to collect lung tissue to study in the lab

Bronchoscopies are useful for all sorts of conditions. They can identify blockages in the lungs, provide direct treatment for lung problems, and obtain samples of mucus and tissues for further analysis.

What Can a Bronchoscopy Diagnose?

Bronchoscopies can diagnose a wide range of conditions.

At Cochise Oncology, we diagnose patients with bronchial cancer and tumors, narrowed or blocked airways, and interstitial pulmonary disease. We can also diagnose conditions such as vocal cord paralysis and inflammatory diseases, such as pneumonia and tuberculosis.

Testimonials

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★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to learn more about bronchoscopies? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page. We look forward to meeting you!