[Bronchoscopy: new diagnostic and therapeutic technology, new indications]

Over the last few years developments have been concentrated on the diagnostic and therapeutic properties of bronchoscopy. Autofluorescence and fluorescence bronchoscopy significantly enhance the detection rate of premalignant and early neoplastic endobronchial lesions. Unfortunately, this technique is hampered by a low specificity. Endobronchial ultrasound examination is the first tool that has enabled the bronchoscopist to get an impression of the tracheal wall beyond its epithelial surface including the mediastinal and the hilar structures. Currently, the complexity of the procedure prevents its widespread application. Intervention bronchoscopy involves mechanical and laser removal of processes that may impede the central airways. Electrocauterization and laser dissection are regularly used to remove intrabronchial tumour depositions. Airway stenting is indicated if there are stenoses caused by compression from abnormalities located externally to the airways.