Paediatric bronchoscopy

Abstract

Ventilating bronchoscopes are available in a variety of sizes and lengths from 2.5 mm internal diameter upwards (Karl Storz GmbH). Safe examination of the tracheobronchial tree from the premature neonate onwards is possible. A variety of telescopes fit down the bronchoscope allowing inspection of all lobar bronchi. Ventilation through the bronchoscope alongside the telescope maintains oxygenation and, under appropriate conditions, spontaneous respiration through the bronchoscope allows assessment of the degree of airway collapse in tracheomalacia or bronchomalacia.