Bronchoscopy-Related Infection and the Development of Single-Use Bronchoscopy Technology

Abstract

Abstract Purpose of Review Bronchoscopy-related infection is recognized as a leading healthcare hazard, and this review delves into its incidence, causes, and prevention. Recent Findings Due to both the recognition of the scale of bronchoscopy-related infection and the COVID-19 pandemic, single-use or disposable bronchoscopy (SUFB) technology has progressed beyond the ICU setting to the bronchoscopy suite. A review of data related to currently available scopes, bench-top, and clinical data is also presented. Summary Not only does SUFB technology provide a portable and immediately accessible bronchoscope for procedures in the ICU and endoscopy suite, it also is a sterile option for standard bronchoscopy procedures thus avoiding infection related to scope contamination. Cost-effectiveness comparisons vary between single-use and reusable scopes depending on calculated incidence of scope-related infection. Although no one should suffer an infection related to bronchoscopy, SUFB technology lacks proper comparison to reusable scope quality. In the meantime, the most important intervention is proper cleaning and assessment of reusable scopes for damage.