Role of Bronchoscopy in Atelectasis

Atelectasis is one of the most commonly encountered abnormalities in chest radiology and remains a daily diagnostic challenge. At times, atelectasis can be overlooked, particularly when pulmonary opacification is minimal or absent, and, at other times, it might be interpreted as being some other form of intrathoracic pathology, particularly pneumonia. Concern over prolonged atelectasis is that it may worsen hypoxemia through shunting and may predispose the patient to nosocomial pneumonia. Traditionally, the treatment of atelectasis has focused on suctioning with adjuncts such as chest physiotherapy, kinetic beds, therapy with mucolytic agents, mechanical vibration therapy delivered through hand-held devices, and vests. Bronchoscopy is typically reserved to be a last-ditch effort in the management of atelectasis.