Is it really necessary to do bronchoscopy? Is it necessary for all patients with pulmonary nodules?

Since the doctor advised you to do it, it means that the examination is necessary. Through bronchoscopy, we can find the specific location of the nodule and determine its size, which is convenient for arranging the follow-up treatment plan.

We often say that pulmonary nodules usually refer to peripheral pulmonary nodules, that is, nodules far from the central bronchus, which can be found by CT and other imaging examinations. However, if it is a central micro-nodule, imaging examination (such as X-ray and computed tomography) can't be seen. It is found that the "central" pulmonary nodules with a diameter less than 1cm need bronchoscopy, and the pathological examination needs bronchoscopy. In short, biopsy can be considered for non-central pulmonary nodules or peripheral nodules that are particularly far from the central bronchus.

Imaging examination is still the first choice in the diagnosis of pulmonary nodules. Puncture or observation is based on imaging features, such as the size, location and morphology of nodules displayed by computed tomography. If the imaging features are not obvious, we can dynamically observe whether the nodule is benign or malignant. There are two treatment methods, one is biopsy to determine whether it is benign or malignant, and the other is direct surgical resection.

Many patients are worried that if the puncture needle penetrates tumor cells, it will lead to tumor proliferation or metastasis. Admittedly, this risk does exist, but the incidence is very low. In addition, for patients who are highly suspected of having lung cancer, most of them need surgery after receiving puncture examination, and another examination will only increase the pain and trauma of patients.

Pulmonary nodules are not as terrible as you think, and they can be completely cured. What you have to do at this time is to keep a peaceful mind and actively cooperate with the doctor's treatment. Come on, you can do it!