Abstract
We used bronchofiberscopy in lung abscess for aspiration of bronchial secretions and lavage with saline in lung abscess cases.
The bronchofiberscope was introduced orally under topical anesthesia with 4% Xylocain. After the bronchofiberscope was inserted into the appropriate bronchus, bronchial brushing, suction of secretions, and lavage with saline were performed, followed immediately by aspiration with a vacuum pump. Finally we infused antibiotics into the bronchus. Postural and vibration drainage were performed after this procedure.
19 patients ranging in age from 28 to 86 with a diagnosis of lung abscess were treated by this procedure. In 13 (68%) of the 19 patients clinical and roentogenologic improvements were obtained by this procedure. The reduction in the period of illness with this method is evident. The strain the patients is so low that even elderly patients can receive this therapy. Greater effectiveness is obtained if applied at an early stage after the onset but. It would not be effective in cases with peripheral localization of the affected region. These results indicate that the bronchofiberscope is effective in initiating drainage of lung abscess.
