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Services/Procedures:
Certain procedures are performed by the pulmonologist* or some tests require the availability of the physician**, which will have an effect on when the appointment may be scheduled.
Complete Pulmonary Function Testing
Painless test that measures lung function
May take up to 2 hours
You may need to withhold certain medication prior to testing
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Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing
Painless test that measures your exercise tolerance
Takes approximately 1 ½ hours with both setup and recovery time included, the exercise portion typically take from 1 to 10 minutes
Wear clothing appropriate for exercise such as sneakers and comfortable pants
Most tests are done on an exercise bike but a treadmill may be used instead
Blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and heart rhythm are monitored throughout
Your breathing may be measured during exercise with a mask or mouthpiece
A physician will be present during testing
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Arterial Blood Gas Analysis
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) A blood test taken from the artery (rather than the vein) which tells primarily how much oxygen is getting into your system, how much carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) is removed, the blood's acidity and several other important factors that help us know how the lungs are working.
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Methacholine Challenge Testing
Painless test to determine if you have asthma
May take up to 2 hours for testing
May require withholding certain medications prior to testing
Requires basic lung function assessment prior to starting test
Testing is only done in the morning due to physician availability
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Bronchoscopy
A Bronchoscopy is an examination in which a physician can view your larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), and bronchial tubes. It is performed to determine the presence and severity of any abnormalities in the airway, by a physician specially trained in the use of a bronchoscope
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Bronchoscopy Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a bronchoscope?
A bronchoscope is a flexible, tubular instrument which allows a doctor to see inside your airways. It is attached to a light source, has magnifying lenses and a “steering mechanism” so that it can focus on a point in any direction. Biopsies (small sample of tissue) or brushings can be taken by passing a biopsy forceps or brush through a channel in the bronchosope.
Water may also be introduced through this channel to wash the lining of the airways. Secretions of fluid may also be removed through a suction channel.
Why do this procedure?
Reasons for this procedure include:
To determine the source of hemoptysis (coughing up blood).
To evaluate for cough.
To examine the airways for the presence of a foreign body or tumor and obtain biopsies if indicated.
To search for a source of infection in the lungs and to obtain appropriate specimen
To further clarify any abnormality seen on X-ray.
What preparation is necessary for this test?
You should not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure except for medications as directed by your physician.
When you should arrive?
As an outpatient you should arrive at the admission registration desk 10 minutes prior to your appointment to accommodate the admissions process. You may receive a phone call from preregistration to register you in advance the day prior to your examination or you can call preregistration at 663-5663 to register in advance. If you need to cancel your appointment, call your doctor. If there is any delay in the starting time you will be notified.
Before the procedure:
You will be directed to the Pulmonary Function Lab if you are an outpatient, or transported there from your hospital room if you are an inpatient. There you will be met by the assistant to the physician who will be there throughout the procedure to assist you and your doctor.
Is this procedure painful?
There is usually no pain associated with this procedure.
How is this procedure done?
Medication can be given to relax you and make you as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure.
All testing requires a physician's order. The physician's office will call the Pulmonary Lab to schedule your appointment. If you have any questions about your testing or procedure you may call the Pulmonary Lab at 663-2332.
The data collected during your test will be interpreted by a pulmonologist. The dictated report will be sent to the referring physician.
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