Procedures

What is a pulmonary function test?

Also known as a breathing test, a pulmonary function test (PFT) measures your breathing and how well your lungs are functioning. A PFT consists of several different tests that measure the volume of air in your lungs, the amount of oxygen your blood receives from your lungs, and other details about your lung functions. 

A PFT can help identify a wide range of breathing problems, including asthma, chronic bronchitis, COPD, respiratory infections, and lung fibrosis. The most commonly performed PFT is spirometry, which measures how much air you can inhale and how quickly you can exhale. 

What is a bronchoscopy?

A bronchoscopy is both a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that allows your doctor to examine your airways and treat any issues they find. Your doctor may perform a bronchoscopy to identify unexplained breathing problems like chronic coughing, noisy breathing, or coughing up blood. During the procedure, your doctor places a small tube with a camera lens attached, into your nose or mouth, and guides it through your airways. 

During a bronchoscopy, your doctor can remove a blockage from your lungs or collect tissue for further testing. In some cases, your doctor may perform an endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), which uses ultrasound technology to produce images of the structures in your lungs and airways.

What is bronchial thermoplasty?

Bronchial thermoplasty (BT) is an innovative treatment for adults with severe asthma. Your doctor may recommend BT if you’re on daily asthma medication and still suffer from two or more asthma attacks a year. During the procedure, your doctor uses a small flexible tube (bronchoscope) to deliver gentle heat to the airway walls. This process reduces the excessive smooth muscle responsible for your constricted breathing. BT is a minimally invasive procedure that can reduce your dependence on inhaled corticosteroids and other asthma medications.  The process requires no incisions and takes about an hour. 

Texas Multi-Specialty Group specializes in some of the latest solutions for a wide range of breathing problems. The team of physicians offers the highest quality, evidence-based medicine. To schedule your visit, book an appointment by phone or online today.