Original Article The Value of Flexible Bronchoscopy in the Diagnosis and
Treatment of Atelectasis; A Single-Center Experience of 108 Pediatric
Patients
Abstract
Introduction: The current literature lacks a comprehensive
investigation into the use of flexible bronchoscopy (FB) in the
treatment of childhood atelectasis. Methods: In this
retrospective study, the data of pediatric patients who were diagnosed
with atelectasis and underwent FB for diagnostic and therapeutic
purposes in our center from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2022 were
retracted from medical records. The study aimed to assess the
effectiveness of FB in diagnosing and treating atelectasis in children,
identifying the appropriate patient population and the optimal timing
for intervention. Results: A total of 108 children, with a
median age of 4.9 years (14 days-18 years), underwent FB. At the time
atelectasis was detected, at least one underlying disease was present in
62% of the patients. Based on the macroscopic and microscopic FB
findings, 86.1% of the patients received a new diagnosis, and 83.3% of
the patients were prescribed additional new treatments. At the last
outpatient visit, complete resolution of the atelectasis was observed in
40.8% of patients, while 31.4% showed no resolution. The duration from
the diagnosis of atelectasis to FB was shorter in patients with partial
or complete resolution. Patients without additional radiological
abnormalities or scoliosis had higher resolution rates, while those with
congenital cardiac diseases, immunodeficiency, or primary ciliary
dyskinesia had lower rates. Conclusion: Children with
atelectasis who do not respond to conventional treatments within three
weeks may undergo FB. Delayed FB contributes to failure in resolving
atelectasis, prolonged recovery times, and increased recurrence rates,
particularly in patients with underlying diseases.