A New Double Lumen Endotracheal Tube for Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy

Fiberoptic bronchoscopy can be performed transnasally, transorally (with and without tube), through a tracheostoma and through a rigid bronchoscope. For the last several years we preferred the transoral method with an endotracheal tube. We think, it is superior to other methods, as it provides a higher quality of examination and a better management of possible complications. The most important advantage is the possibility to withdraw and to reintroduce easily the bronchoscope during the whole procedure whenever needed without reintubation. Thus for instance the lens of the bluiichoscope and the suction channel can be cleaned repeatedly within seconds. In addition it is important that after biopsy the bronchoscope and the Forceps can be taken out of the bronchial system as a unit, thus avoiding the loss of diagnostic material during retraction of the forceps through the suction channel. Finally it should be stressed that this method also facilitates removal of foreign bodies.