Bronchoscopy and bronchography in children. Experience with 110 investigations

The results of 92 bronchoscopic examinations and 18 bronchograms in infants and children performed during a two-year period were reviewed. Of 62 patients with suspected foreign-body aspiration, the diagnosis was confirmed in 36 (58%); of 18 patients mainly suspected of having congenital anomalies, a positive diagnosis was made in 12 (66%); but of nine patients with lobar atelectasis only two had abnormal findings. In three patients a transbronchial biopsy specimen did not provide diagnostic material. Bronchography for suspected localized bronchiectasis was performed in 11 patients and a positive diagnosis was made in seven. In all seven patients suspected of having congenital anomalies, bronchography provided a definitive diagnosis. There was no mortality and morbidity was minimal but three patients died of their primary disease. Nearly 60% of the investigations yielded abnormal results, but many of the normal findings were of equal clinical value.