Abstract
A technique for bedside bronchofiberoscopy is described which is based upon the use of a soft latex nasopharyngeal airway for introduction of the instrument. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is well tolerated by the patient No morbidity has occurred in 325 procedures on 285 patients. In addition to visualization of lesions and airway dynamics of the tracheobronchial tree, methods for obtaining selective cultures and bronchography have also been developed. The technique of bedside bronchofiberoscopy promises to be a major advance in the diagnosis and management of bronchopulmonary disorders.
