The out-patient use of the fibrebronchoscope for examining the larynx.
The fibrebronchoscope has been used as a routine out-patient instrument, in 816 cases using 2 1/2 per cent cocaine anaesthesia without mishap, the suction channel making it ideal for clearing the thick post-irradiation secretions often seen in our joint clinic with radiotherapy. Patient tolerance has been excellent, many preferring it to mirror examination. I personally prefer the added length of the bronchoscope to the shorter nasopharyngoscope, allowing me not to be so close to the patient and also allowing me to let them see their own larynx and be reassured. The suction channel on the bronchoscope is a great advantage compared with the nasopharyngoscope. Video link-up is easily organized. Finally, as most District General Hospitals possess a fibrebronchoscope, it is something that can be organized with minimal or no cost.
D000553:Ambulatory Care; D020680:Bronchoscopes; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology; D006801:Humans; D007818:Laryngeal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D010608:Pharyngeal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis