Diagnostic and Interventional Bronchoscopy in Children

Book excerpt: Collaboratively authored by international experts and innovators, this book serves as a comprehensive introduction to flexible bronchoscopy in children, a guide to normal and abnormal bronchoscopy findings, and as the first pediatric bronchoscopy text to describe the array of innovative technologies now being utilized in advanced diagnostic and interventional bronchoscopy programs. Flexible bronchoscopy is a core clinical service provided by academic pediatric pulmonary medicine programs and a critical skill that trainees are expected to develop. The role of flexible bronchoscopy in the care of children with disorders of the respiratory tract has evolved rapidly over the past decade due to technological advances in diagnostic and therapeutic instruments. While many of these tools were designed for adult patients, pediatric pulmonologists have adapted them to meet the unique needs of children. The book is organized into three sections: the history and fundamentals of flexible bronchoscopy; the role of flexible bronchoscopy in evaluation of pediatric respiratory tract disorders; and advanced diagnostic and interventional bronchoscopy. Throughout, images and videos enhance the text and provide invaluable perspective. This is an ideal guide for practicing pediatric pulmonologists and trainees, and will also prove useful to pediatric anesthesiologists, intensivists, otolaryngologists and respiratory therapists.