Complex Airway Tests and Diagnoses

Complex Airway Tests and Diagnoses

For a lung, chest, or esophageal disorder, your physician may recommend any of a number of tests to help diagnose and treat the problem. These tests include:

• Blood test: Your physician may recommend a blood test to determine if a chest disorder is a result of a bacterial or viral infection.
• Chest X-ray: An X-ray may be done in order to examine the chest or lungs and other organs in the region.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: An MRI of the chest can produce detailed images of the organs and structures in the chest.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT (or CAT) scan offers a more detailed, cross-sectional scan than a simple X-ray and is useful in helping your physician accurately assess your respiratory and cardiovascular systems, as well as examine your esophagus for any injuries or disease.
• CT angiography (CTA): A CTA combines the diagnostic imaging of a CT scan with a dye injection that helps provide images of blood vessels and tissues in an affected part of your body.
• Bronchoscopy: A bronchoscope is a flexible or rigid device used to see the inside of the lungs. The flexible bronchoscope is a thin tube passed through the mouth or nose, down the trachea and into the lungs. It lets your physician collect samples of cells
• Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS): This new, minimally invasive procedure may be conducted during a bronchoscopy, which lets your physician determine the stage of lung cancer.
• Transbronchial needle aspiration: Your physician may use this procedure to take a biopsy, using a small needle inserted through the bronchoscope during an EBUS.
• Pulmonary function test (PFT): Your physician may conduct pulmonary function testing to determine the severity of your respiratory impairment. A key device used for a PFT is a spirometer.
  
  • Spirometer: A spirometer is a simple, noninvasive device used to measure the volume of air inspired and expired by your lungs. Your thoracic surgeon may use this to measure the efficiency of your lungs as a way of determining their degree of function or impairment. A special spirometer, known as an incentive spirometer, may be used before or after surgery to help you improve your lung function.