Risks

Complications from bronchoscopy are uncommon and usually minor, although they are rarely severe. Complications may be more likely if airways are inflamed or damaged by disease. Complications may be related to the procedure itself or to the sedative or topical numbing medicine.

• Bleeding. Bleeding is more likely if a biopsy was taken. Usually, bleeding is minor and stops without treatment.
• Collapsed lung. In rare cases, an airway may be injured during bronchoscopy. If the lung is punctured, air can collect in the space around the lung, which can cause the lung to collapse. Usually this problem is easily treated, but it may require admission to the hospital.
• Fever. Fever is relatively common after bronchoscopy but is not always a sign of infection. Treatment is generally not needed.