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Bronchoscopy-related bleeding — SCE Respiratory MCQ

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HardInterventional PulmonologyBronchoscopy-related bleedingSCE Respiratory

A 56-year-old woman undergoes bronchoscopy for haemoptysis. During endobronchial biopsy of a vascular tumour she develops brisk bleeding, desaturation and poor views. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Wedge the bronchoscope in the bleeding segment, position bleeding lung down and call for senior help

Bronchoscopic bleeding is managed initially by maintaining airway control, wedging the scope, isolating the bleeding lung down and escalating to senior anaesthetic/interventional help. Continuing biopsies or withdrawing without control can worsen airway flooding. Oral treatment and pleural procedures do not address acute endobronchial bleeding.

Reference: BTS Bronchoscopy Guideline