Objective: To analyse the indications, safety and outcome of flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) in neonates.
Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in Level III neonatal unit (ICH, Chennai) and included 84 neonates with various respiratory problems admitted over a 3 y period.
Results: The indications included stridor (18%), persistent radiological abnormalities (44%), unexplained wheeze/respiratory distress (21%) and others (17%). The mean age and weight were 25 d and 2.82 kg respectively. Bronchoscopy detected various anomalies like upper airway anomalies (10.7%), lower airway malacia (21%), synchronous airway malacias (19%) and miscellaneous anatomical abnormalities (18%). Bronchoalveolar lavage was done in 62% with microbiological yield in 54% cases.FOB helped in the revision of diagnosis in 57%. Resolution of atelectasis was observed in 13.5% cases. Except for transient hypoxemia in 2 neonates, no other complication was encountered.
Conclusions: Flexible bronchoscopy is safe and useful both as diagnostic and therapeutic tool in neonates with respiratory problems.