2026 Volume 4 Issue 1 Pages 1-37
The guidebook "For Safe Bronchoscopy" was created by the Japan Society for Respiratory Endoscopy Safety Management Committee and published online in 2005. This is the 5th edition, the first revision in approximately 7 years since the 4th edition, with content from the 1st through 4th editions substantially revised to reflect changes in the medical environment. Over the past 7 years, the field of respiratory endoscopy has evolved considerably, with new techniques being introduced. In addition to the introduction of new drugs and discontinuation of certain medications, this 5th edition addresses 11 topics (expanded from 9), reflecting areas requiring heightened attention. In particular, between the publication of the 4th edition and this current revision, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic occurred, elevating the importance of infection control and necessitating the addition of "Infection Control and Bronchoscopy." Regarding "Management of Patients on Antithrombotic Therapy (Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Drugs)," the increasing use of antithrombotic agents directly relates to bleeding risk during bronchoscopy, and necessitating appropriate risk assessment and development of procedural plans that may include temporary medication discontinuation. Therefore, this edition includes a new section on managing patients taking antithrombotic drugs, previously addressed within "Safety Measures Before Bronchoscopy" in the 4th edition. "Management of Radiation Exposure" was added because personnel in departments utilizing radiation need training in radiation protection and personal exposure dose monitoring.
We anticipate this 5th edition will serve as a comprehensive guide for facilities performing respiratory endoscopy and contribute meaningfully to procedural safety.
