 Clinical Update A NEWSLETTER FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS From the Director In this issue of Clinical Update, we explore the indications for and utility of bronchoscopy in the management of tracheobronchial and pulmonary pathologic conditions. Advances in fiberoptic instrumentation and expanded laser technology have extended the diagnostic and therapeutic role of bronchoscopy. We are now able to visibly detect minimal lung cancers with laser fluorescent bronchoscopy at a stage where invasive treatments may be avoided. Malignant airway obstruction, which was previously poorly controlled with radiation or chemotherapy, can possibly be overcome using a variety of new therapeutic bronchoscopic techniques. Expeditious bronchoscopic diagnosis of pulmonary infiltrates can be accomplished without the need for more invasive surgical procedures. Malignant lesions involving the bronchi and mid-lung zone of the pulmonary parenchyma can now be readily diagnosed with bronchoscopy (Figure 1).
Bronchoscopy is the centerpiece intervention in the evaluation and treatment of pulmonary disease. We hope this update will provide primary care physicians with further insight into the indications for bronchoscopic intervention.
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