Bronchoscopy is the visualization of the trachea and bronchi of the lungs through a flexible or rigid tube that is attached to a video camera and light source. Indications for bronchoscopy include unexplained cough, wheeze or stridor during breathing or evaluation of abnormalities seen on radiographs of the thorax. Various samples can be collected during bronchoscopy including brushings of the respiratory tract for cytology and culture, bronchoalveolar washing to collect samples from deep in the lung tissue and biopsies of masses or abnormal tissue. Animals with suspected tracheal or bronchial collapse are better evaluated by bronchoscopy than radiographs because we are able to see a functional real time image rather than a single picture of the airway. The extent of the collapse can also be better evaluated in order to guide treatment. Theraputically we can remove tracheal foreign bodies and some tumors with a bronchoscope. Generally we recommend thoracic radiographs prior to bronchoscopy to evaluate the whole thorax and to guide our evaluation of specific areas of the respiratory tract. The animal is anesthetized and maintained on general anesthesia during the procedure. The bronchoscopy generally lasts 15 to 20 minutes and most animals are discharged the same day as the procedure. Treatment is based on visual findings and any test results that are submitted. This will be coordinated with your regular veterinarian.