Rigid Bronchoscopy

Rigid bronchoscopy is most commonly used to manage patients who have obstruction of either their trachea or a proximal bronchus, since the rigid bronchoscope's large lumen facilitates suctioning and the removal of debris, or for interventional procedures such as insertion of airway stents. 

Why is a rigid bronchoscopy preferred?

Rigid bronchoscopy can be invaluable and life-saving in cases of severe obstruction because the bronchoscope can be pushed past the obstruction. It is unsurpassed in evaluation, control, and therapeutic manipulation of the tracheobronchial tree.

What is the difference between rigid and flexible bronchoscope?

Flexible bronchoscopes generally are used for evaluation and biopsy, whereas rigid bronchoscopes are uniquely capable of establishing and maintaining airway control in a life-threatening situation, such as acute upper airway obstruction or massive hemoptysis.