Bronchoscopic anatomy

• Published in: Anaesthesia and intensive care medicine Vol. 9; no. 12; pp. 542 - 544
• Main Authors: Snell, Andrew, Mackay, Jonathan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2008
• Subjects: airway anatomy; Anesthesia & Perioperative Care; bronchoscopic anatomy; bronchoscopy; fibre-optic bronchoscope; bronchoscopic anatomy; airway anatomy; fibre-optic bronchoscope; bronchoscopy
• ISSN: 1472-0299; 1878-7584
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mpaic.2008.09.022

Abstract Since its introduction in the 1980s the flexible fibre-optic bronchoscope has become an undeniably useful tool for clinicians. Its use is an essential skill for airway managers for difficult intubations, lung isolation techniques and in rapid assessment of airway pathology both intraoperatively and in the critical care setting. Most international bodies that oversee anaesthesia accreditation and training such as the Royal College of Anaesthetists and the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists now recommend a fibre-optic bronchoscope as an essential piece of equipment that should be readily available in all locations where anaesthesia services are routinely provided. Therefore, part of the skill set required for the anaesthetist/intensivist should be a knowledge of bronchoscopic anatomy and common variations that may be encountered that may result in perioperative problems, including common pitfalls in placement of lung isolation devices.