Bronchoscopy: Past, Present, and Future

AbstractPurpose of ReviewTo review the history of the bronchoscope and how pulmonologists have implemented it in clinical practice. Bronchoscopy has changed more in the last 20 years than in the previous century. The role of the pulmonologist has changed with the evolution of technology.Recent FindingsOver the last 20 years, endobronchial ultrasound and electromagnetic navigation have been employed in the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. Most recently, robotic technology has been incorporated in bronchoscopy to provide enhanced stability, flexibility, and reach.SummaryBronchoscopy has emerged as a minimally invasive technique to diagnoses, stage, and potentially treat lung cancer.
Source: Current Respiratory Care Reports - Category: Respiratory Medicine Source Type: research