[Bronchoscopy with a rigid tube, an obsolete method?]

Of the two methods of bronchoscopy, the rigid bronchoscope and the flexible instrument, it is clear that one cannot be used to the complete exclusion of the other. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages. The rigid tube has many diagnostic and especially therapeutic advantages in the main bronchi, while the flexible instrument displays its strong points in the peripheral areas. The two methods complement one another. Bronchofiberscopy alone cannot be recommended, but if it is carried out nevertheless it is merely a general bronchoscopy and the limitations must be taken into consideration. It must be possible to deal with any complications which may arise.