Experience with the use of bronchoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of Covid-19
Flexible video-bronchoscopy is a versatile method that is easy to use and well tolerated in patients with COVID-19 who are on a ventilator.
Its applications include:
Collection of lower respiratory tract specimens (sputum, endotracheal aspirate, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid) for SARS-CoV-2 or other pathogens can help clinicians determine appropriate antimicrobial selection for favorable clinical outcomes. Experience in China has also shown that lower respiratory tract samples are more likely to be positive for SAR-CoV-2 than upper respiratory tract samples.
This method can also be used to locate bleeding lesions, stop bleeding, and remove sputum or blood clots. Local injections of cold saline, epinephrine, vasopressin, or fibrin, and laser therapy can be performed using a bronchoscope if a hemorrhagic foci is detected using a bronchoscope.
Assist with creation of artificial airways, controlled endotracheal intubation or percutaneous tracheostomy.
Through bronchoscopy, drugs such as alpha-interferon and N-acetylcysteine can be given to the patient.
Bronchoscopy helps to obtain bronchoscopy images showing extensive congestion of the bronchial mucosa, edema, frothy secretions in the lumen, and jelly-like sputum blocking the airway.
