Evaluation Background: Flexible Video Bronchoscopes

Here's background for our Evaluations of flexible video bronchoscopes, outlining the key considerations for making wise purchasing decisions. Learn how the technology is used, which specs are important, and what factors we test for. Also review our latest product ratings and ECRI Institute's data describing hospitals' interest in each vendor.

Bronchoscopes are used to examine the respiratory tract. They are inserted through the nose or mouth to examine the trachea and primary, secondary, and tertiary bronchi of the lungs during diagnostic and therapeutic respiratory procedures. Bronchoscope platforms typically consist of the bronchoscope, a light source, a video processing and information management system, and a display.

Flexible video bronchoscopes, in particular:

1. Are flexible, as opposed to rigid

2. Have a controllable bending section at the tip

3. Use a chip to capture images for display on a monitor

4. Are available in reusable models, which can be reprocessed for subsequent uses, or disposable/single-use models, which are intended for use during only a single procedure

Flexible bronchoscopes have been in wide use since their introduction in the 1960s (Dionisio 2012). In recent years, the use of flexible bronchoscopes has increased relative to the use of rigid bronchoscopes. In addition, incremental and dramatic improvements have occurred, including advances in video quality, ergonomics, and reprocessing guidelines.

Single-use bronchoscopes were developed in response to the ongoing risk of cross-contamination presented by reusable bronchoscopes. The first single-use bronchoscopes received 510(k) clearance in 2010. These bronchoscopes are used to perform one procedure,...