Flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy and laryngoscopy in children under 2 years of age: diagnostic and therapeutic applications of a new pediatric flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope

Abstract

The new flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope (Olympus BF Type 3C4, Tokyo, Japan) was employed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in 96 children below 2 yr of age. Sixty-two laryngoscopies and 34 bronchoscopies were performed without any mortality or significant morbidity. The bronchoscope was helpful in establishing diagnosis and also served as a tool for aspirating secretions and resolving atelectasis. It is concluded that flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy and laryngoscopy in children 2 yr or younger is a safe procedure and may aid in the diagnosis and therapy of disorders of the respiratory tract in this age group.