Final answer:
Bronchoscopy is utilized for both diagnostic and therapeutic reasons in the medical field. Diagnostically, it helps to inspect the airways, collect biopsies, and evaluate obstructions. Therapeutically, it is used to remove blockages or perform intubation in cases where the respiratory system is compromised.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bronchoscopy is a medical procedure that enables doctors to examine the inside of the airways for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The bronchial tubes, which are part of the respiratory system, play a vital role in conveying air between the trachea and the alveoli in the lungs.
Diagnostic purposes of bronchoscopy include inspecting abnormalities, collecting tissue samples for biopsy to diagnose lung diseases, and evaluating blockages or excessive mucus that can interfere with normal airflow, such as in cases of bronchitis. Spirometry test results can also augment bronchoscopy findings by helping diagnose respiratory diseases through measurement of lung volumes and capacities.
For therapeutic purposes, bronchoscopy may be employed to clear blockages, remove foreign bodies, or to conduct procedures like intubation where a tube is inserted to help a patient breathe. This can be especially critical if part of the respiratory system is obstructed by a foreign object or due to injury, enabling air to reach the lungs bypassing the obstructed area.