Usefulness of Flexible Airway Endoscopy for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Diseases in Children.

Background Flexible airway endoscopy is a highly valuable procedure for evaluating pediatric airway and pulmonary disorders. However, its use in our setup is limited. Objective The main objective of this study is to analyze indications for flexible airway endoscopy in our population, explore its diagnostic yield and highlight potential complications. Method Seventy flexible airway endoscopies performed in children at Nepal Medical College and Teaching Hospital from June, 2013 to May, 2015 were analyzed. Result Fifty six (80%) of airway endoscopy had a meaningful outcome. Diagnostic yield for individual indications ranged from 50 to 87.5%. Recurrent/persistent pneumonia was the most rewarding indication. Complications were minimal and easily reversible. Conclusion The overall diagnostic yield of flexible airway endoscopy in our study population was 80%. The procedure was safe with minimal complication. Hence, earlier intervention and utilization of bronchoscopy should be encouraged after a careful clinical consideration of patients who could potentially benefit from this procedure.