[Design and application of a dedicated support stand for fiberoptic bronchoscopy]

The fiberoptic bronchoscope, when fully integrated with imaging systems, enables real-time observation of airway structures. It can assist in procedures such as clearing respiratory secretions, tracheal intubation assistance, and bronchoalveolar lavage. It is widely used in various settings, including intensive care unit (ICU), emergency department, anesthesiology, and critical care respiratory department. However, the fiberoptic bronchoscope currently used in clinical practice faces clinical issues such as susceptibility to accidental touch, low operational efficiency, and difficulty in adjusting height. To address these issues, medical staff from the department of critical care medicine of Zhongda Hospital Affiliated to Southeast University have designed a dedicated support stand for fiberoptic bronchoscopy and obtained a National Utility Model Patent of China (ZL 2020 2 3282155.9). The dedicated support stand for fiberoptic bronchoscopy comprises two core components: a telescoping vertical frame and a multifunctional articulating support structure. The apparatus incorporates a telescoping pole system to adapt its height to different operators and integrates multiple functional modules, including a display fixation unit (secured by limit grooves), a bronchoscope temporary storage component (Ω -shaped elastic clamps), and partitioned consumable management, thereby optimizing procedural workflows. A foot-pedal-operated non-contact waste bin ensures safe disposal of medical waste, mitigating cross-contamination risks. The modular design, combined with a 360degree angle rotatable bracket, enables flexible adjustment of operational angles to reduce operator musculoskeletal fatigue. This device was designed to fully consider the convenience of clinical use, aiming to simplify preoperative preparation procedures and enhance operational safety, which helps reduce the risk of scope slippage and contamination. Its structural features make it suitable for various clinical scenarios such as the ICU and emergency department, demonstrating strong potential for practicality.