A retrospective study of 60 bronchofiberscopic lavage procedures following lung surgery
showed an increase of prebronchoscopy oxygen partial pressure from 64.2 mmHg (S.D.
± 16.2) to 69.9 mmHg (S.D. ± 18.0) after bronchoscopy (P < 0.01), while carbon dioxide
partial pressure did not change significantly. Lobectomied patients tended more often
to develop ipsilateral atelectases, invariably responding well to lavage; this group
may benefit from prophylactic fiberoptic lavage. Cases are presented to demonstrate
this point and to show the need for repeated lavage in some instances. Administration
of a standard premedication dosage to patients sedated for other reasons occasionally
led to worsened respiratory status; pre-medication should be reduced or eliminated
in sedated patients. The effective application of lidocain and salbutamol intrabronchially
is discussed. The bronchofiberscope is an important tool in optimal post-operative
management of lung surgery patients.
Fiberoptic bronchoscopy - Postoperative treatment - Lung surgery
