Pediatric flexible airway endoscopy--the light in the tunnel.
Flexible airway endoscopy (FAE) allows direct visualization and functional assessment of the larynx and central airways and access to lung lavage fluid and biopsy specimens for culture and diagnostic studies. Recently, FAE has been utilized in children for diagnosis and therapy of airway and pulmonary disorders. Pediatric FAE differs significantly from adult FAE in regards to anatomy and physiology of the central airways, indications, sedation and monitoring, common diagnostic findings, and therapeutic options. This review will focus upon clinical utility of pediatric FAE with emphasis upon diagnostic and therapeutic applications and limitations of this relatively new invasive technology.
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Flexible Airway Endoscopy Services, Arkansas Children's Hospital, Little Rock.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001706:Biopsy; D001992:Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D012137:Respiratory System; D012140:Respiratory Tract Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis