Role of bronchoscopy in lung cancer

Advancements in technology and experience have pushed forth the bronchoscope's increasing role in the struggle against lung cancer. The bronchoscope is useful in the following situations: diagnosis, staging, treatment of endobronchial lesions for palliation or cure, early detection of lung cancer, and research. In this article, we provide a concise overview of several endoscopic modalities (i.e., transbronchial needle aspiration, laser photoresection, photodynamic therapy, electrocautery, cryotherapy, brachytherapy, stents, autofluorescence bronchoscopy, and gene therapy). Basic principles, technique, indications, outcome data, and associated complications of each modality are discussed.