Current developments in bronchoscopy. The role of the flexible fiberscope.

The development and increasing use of flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy has added immeasurably to the potential of diagnostic and therapeutic bronchoscopy. However, neither the flexible nor rigid (open tube) bronchoscope should be regarded as the "primary instrument", but the use of one or the other in the individual case should depend on relative indications. Ideally, bronchologists should be proficient with both rigid and flexible instruments; it is preferable that those experienced only in flexible bronchoscopy work in collaboration with those who are familiar with open tube bronchoscopy as well. In any case, the need for facility in management of airway obstruction, indirect and direct laryngoscopy, and proper administration of topical anesthetics to the larynx and tracheobronchial tree should be recognized. Indications, instrumentarium and technique, special applications, contraindications and complications of flexible bronchoscopy are reviewed.