Lung image changes during bronchopulmonary lavage estimated using transoesophageal echocardiography

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is often treated with bronchopulmonary lavage. Transoesophageal echocardiography has been used to detect lung atelectasis in critical situations. A 68-yr-old male with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis underwent bronchopulmonary lavage and was examined using transoesophageal echocardiography. His dependent left-lung area was observed through the descending aorta. Following saline infusion, no bright areas containing air were observed. The average area of the air-free region following instillation was 37.4 +/- 1.8 cm2, which decreased to 22.8 +/- 2.6 cm2 after drainage (P < 0.001). There was a significant relationship between the percentage venous admixture and air-free area during lavage (P < 0.05, r = -0.76). The image of the right lung was unclear. Transoesophageal echocardiography can yield useful information about the lung during bronchopulmonary lavage.