BRONCHOSCOPES (endoscopy)

A bronchoscope is an instrument used to examine the trachea, bronchi, larynx, mucosal lining, and other structures of the airway. Available in two forms, the thin, flexible, fibre-optic bronchoscope is preferred over the rigid type for examining the airway. However, if there is bleeding or obstruction of the airway, the rigid device is used.