Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026

Systematic Bronchoscopy: the Four Landmarks Approach
Published on: June 23, 2023
Flexible bronchoscopy in supine or sitting position: a randomized prospective analysis of safety and patient comfort
Janet P van Zwam1, Erik F G Kapteijns, Sylvia Lahey
1Alysis Heathcare Group, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, The Netherlands.
Background:
Flexible bronchoscopy is performed under many different conditions (sitting/supine position, with or without oxygen prophylaxis) in different hospitals according to local traditions.
Objectives:
The study was to investigate the effect of different patient positions in flexible bronchoscopy on patient comfort and safety.
Methods:
We started a prospective randomized controlled trial to compare bronchoscopy in supine and sitting positions. Consecutive outpatients undergoing regular diagnostic bronchoscopy were included and randomly selected to be in a supine or sitting position. A self-administrated questionnaire was taken from the patients after the bronchoscopy and the answers were evaluated. A total of 107 patients were included; 46 underwent bronchoscopy in the supine position.
Results:
Of all patients, 52% showed a decrease in oxygen saturation of more than 4%. The sitting position is a risk factor for oxygen decline, with a relative risk of 2.46.
Conclusions:
We recommend performing the procedure while the patient is in a supine position. We also recommend routine prophylactic low-flow supplemental oxygen in all patients undergoing bronchoscopy.
Related Concept Videos
Endoscopic Studies I: Bronchoscopy and Thoracoscopy
Bronchoscopy
Description
Bronchoscopy is a procedure that involves direct visualization of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. A flexible fiber optic or rigid bronchoscope is used to carry out the procedure. The fiber-optic bronchoscope is more frequently used due to...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Endoscopic Studies II: Thoracocentesis
Description
Excess pleural fluid or air may accumulate in some respiratory disorders in the thoracic cavity. To treat pleural effusion, a physician conducts thoracentesis by carefully piercing the chest wall and entering...

