ENT/Pulmonology: Bronchoscopy
High-Yield Revision for NEET PG
Bronchoscopy involves visualization of the tracheobronchial tree. It is a vital tool for both diagnostic (biopsy, lavage) and therapeutic (FB removal) purposes.
1. Rigid vs. Flexible
| Type | Primary Use |
|---|---|
| Rigid | Gold standard for Foreign Body (FB) removal, managing massive hemoptysis, and airway stenting. |
| Flexible | Diagnostic bronchoscopy (BAL, biopsy, brushing), assessment of difficult airways, and bedside procedures. |
2. NEET PG High-Yield Pearls
- Anatomical Landmark: The Carina (at the level of the T4/T5 vertebrae) is the bifurcation point of the trachea into the right and left main bronchi.
- Right Main Bronchus: Wider, shorter, and more vertical compared to the left; therefore, inhaled foreign bodies are more common on the right side.
- Contraindication: Severe hypoxia, unstable cardiac arrhythmias, and uncorrected coagulopathy are relative contraindications for flexible bronchoscopy.
- Complications: Pneumothorax, bleeding, hypoxemia, and bronchospasm. Always obtain a post-procedural CXR if a biopsy is performed or if pneumothorax is suspected.
- Therapeutic Tip: For organic FB (e.g., seeds/nuts) in children, bronchoscopy is an urgent procedure due to the risk of mucosal edema and airway obstruction.