Abstract :
Background: Flexible bronchoscopy (FB) is a powerful investigatory tool in patients with respiratory diseases. FB helps in direct visualisation of the upper and lower airways and has role in management of various pulmonary disorders. Its utility in critical care is increasing owing to its diagnostic and therapeutic role. This study aimed at understanding the clinical profile of critically ill ICU patients who required bronchoscopy during ICU stay. Data included demographics, indications, complications and microbiological isolates.
Materials and Methods : This is a retrospective observational study conducted in 53 patients admitted at multidisciplinary ICU of a tertiary care teaching hospital, who required ICU bronchoscopy as an investigatory tool. Bronchoscopy was performed by consultants of Department of pulmonary medicine who are trained in performing flexible bronchoscopy.
Results: There were total 53 patients who required ICU bronchoscopy. Mean age of the study population was 58.08 years with standard deviation of 13.16. Maximum age of study subject was 82 years and minimum age was 21 yrs. Out of 53 subjects 35 were males (66%) and 18 were females (34%). 62.3% of subjects were on mechanical ventilator during procedure. There were complications like hypoxemia, bleeding, hypotension with zero mortality. BAL was the commonest procedure performed. There was no statistical correlation between the indication and complications, and also no correlation between age and the complication.
Statistical Analysis. Data was entered into Microsoft excel sheet and data analysed using Statistical Package for Social sciences (SPSS) version 16. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviations were used. Quantitative data are expressed as mean SD, whereas qualitative data are expressed as numbers and percentages (%). Chi square test was used to find the statistical significance and p
Conclusion: Improved knowledge and awareness of the anatomy and procedure skills make FB a safe procedure even in high risk patients. This article highlights safety and benefits of FB in critically ill patients.
Keyword :
Bronchoscopy, Critical care, Broncho alveolar lavage.