Pneumology

Pulmonology is the medical discipline that treats diseases related to the respiratory system (bronchi, lungs). In particular, it proposes treatment of lung diseases and respiratory diseases.

Definition and aims of this speciality

The aim of pulmonology is:

  • to improve breath during the day by using specific inhaled treatments
  • to improve breathing during the night by using respiratory assistance devices
  • to improve sleep with analysis and appropriate treatment of nocturnal respiratory disorders
  • to maintain respiratory function using endoscopy techniques or respiratory muscle training
  • to treat tumors surgically or non-surgically

Type of pathologies

There are many of these increasingly common diseases, including asthma, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, pleurisy, pneumothorax, cancers, snoring, sleep apnoea, tuberculosis, etc.

Their diagnosis requires a variety of investigative techniques.

Measurement of lung capacity and blood gases

These measurements are taken in the event of an assessment before a surgical procedure or in the event of respiratory complaints. They are also helpful in the event of sleep disorders. Such measurements are taken by breathing into an accurate measuring device, known as a plethysmograph, to carry out pulmonary function testing, or by taking blood.

Bronchial endoscopy

The Endoscopy Centre has a specialized nursing team and two equipped rooms. Flexible and rigid bronchoscopies are carried out hereunder local or general anesthesia. They allow for the diagnosis and treatment of certain lung diseases. Endobronchial treatments, such as clearance using Argon Beamer and placement of prostheses, valves, or coils, can be carried out according to the most modern techniques.

These procedures are performed by the pulmonologists at Clinique de Genolier following a preliminary appointment.

Nocturnal polygraphy for sleep analysis

In the event of sleep disorders, snoring or nocturnal choking, arterial hypertension that is worse at night or a stroke, and fatigue or daytime sleepiness, a nocturnal respiratory examination is important. It can be carried out by recording your sleep at home thanks to a portable device known as a polygraph. It is attached to you at the end of the day. You wear it all night at home and return to the clinic the morning after. The data recorded are then read by the pulmonologist. The results, together with your diagnosis, are given to you at a later consultation when treatment can be initiated.

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