What is the procedure called that allows for examination of the bronchi using a lighted instrument?

The procedure that allows for the examination of the bronchi using a lighted instrument is known as bronchoscopy. This technique involves inserting a bronchoscope, which is a flexible tube equipped with a camera and light source, through the nose or mouth and into the airways. This allows healthcare professionals to visually inspect the bronchi and collect samples if necessary, aiding in the diagnosis of various respiratory conditions.

In the context of this question, the other options have different purposes: thoracentesis is a procedure aimed at removing fluid from the pleural space around the lungs, a biopsy refers to the removal of tissue for diagnostic examination, and a CT scan is an imaging technique that provides cross-sectional images of the body but does not involve direct examination of the bronchi. Therefore, bronchoscopy specifically fits the description of examining the bronchi with a lighted instrument.