A procedure that uses a narrow, flexible tube to inspect the airways is called

• A. Endoscopy
• B. Laryngoscopy
• C. Colonoscopy
• D. Bronchoscopy

Answer: (D)

Bronchoscopy is the procedure that uses a narrow, flexible tube to inspect the airways. A bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth and threaded into the trachea and bronchial tree, allowing direct visualization of the airways. This targeted focus on the respiratory passages is what makes it the correct choice, as the other options refer to inspecting different parts of the body (endoscopy is a broad term for internal visualization, often of the GI tract; laryngoscopy looks at the larynx; colonoscopy examines the colon). Beyond just viewing, bronchoscopy can obtain tissue samples, collect secretions, remove obstructions, or deliver treatments, and it’s performed with appropriate anesthesia or sedation. Like any procedure, it carries risks such as bleeding, infection, or pneumothorax, but these are generally uncommon with proper technique.