The role of bronchoscopy in the management of lung transplant recipients.

摘要

Bronchoscopy is an integral piece in the complex multidisciplinary approach to the care of lung transplant recipients. Although the use of surveillance bronchoscopies is controversial, bronchoscopy undoubtedly provides valuable information in patients with respiratory symptoms or functional decline. Therapeutic bronchoscopic interventions offer effective and safe therapy for complications of anastomotic sites. Further research is needed to address critical questions regarding the role of bronchoscopy in this selected patient population. The objectives of the research should be to increase the yield of bronchoscopy, improve its safety, and decrease procedure-related discomfort. Only randomized, multicenter clinical trials with full commitment from lung transplant centers can accomplish these goals.