Flexible bronchofiberscope

Abstract

The conventional rigid bronchoscope which has been used throughout the world for over 70 years is now being replaced by the flexible bronchofiberscope which was developed by us. The benefits of the use of the flexible bronchofiberscope are as follows:. (1) The visible range in the bronchus is remarkebly increased. (2) The discomfort of the patient is greatly diminished.By using the flexible bronchofiberscope, during the past three years, direct findings were obtained in 299 (83.1%) out of 360 primary lung cancer cases. Direct findings in connection with the early lung cancer in diameter of less than 2 cm. were also obtained in 12 (63.1%) out of 19 cases. Flexible bronchofiberscopy has thus proved very effective in detection of lung cancer in an early stage. It was also found to be an excellent method for cytological diagnosis. Practical method of flexible bronchofiberscopy is explained in detail. © 1971 Oxford University Press.