Clinical applications of rigid bronchoscopy for the treatment of 2 426 cases with central airway diseases

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical applications of rigid bronchoscopy (RB) for the treatment of central airway diseases. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the data that RB was performed in 1 307 cases with 2 426 procedures under general anaesthesia.The age was (53.2±1.7) years old. Results 2 426 RB was successfully performed in 1 307 cases with central airway diseases including 1 034 malignant noeplasmas with 1 947 bronchoscopic procedures and 273 benign airway disorders with 479 procedures.The most common lesionsi were located in major airway.The complications were less common, which including incubation failures and throat edema in 8(0.3%) patients, respectively, then laryngeal mask was exchanged.Teeth were lost in 6(0.2%). Vocal damage and upper segment of trachea were injured in 10(0.4%). Airway strictures were obviously relieved and clinical performance was significantly improved after RB intervention. Conclusions RB is indicated for the treatment of complex or difficult airway diseases.It is safe and rapid during procedure. Key words: Rigid bronchoscopy; Central airway diseases; Bronchoscopic interventions