Abstract
The development of single use flexible bronchoscopes (SUFB) has proceeded with pace over the last 2 years. Concerns regarding infection related to standard bronchoscopes with subsequent COVID-19 pandemic accelerated global uptake with multiple companies releasing SUFB. There has been no ex-vivo comparison of SUFBs to date.
We obtained samples of all commercially available SUFBs (TSC©, Boston Scientific©, Ambu©, Vathin© and Pentax© prototype SUFB). We compared technical metrics using a custom-built bench toolkit engineered to allow standardisation. Angulation was analysed by a force meter to ascertain the effort needed to fully flex the scopes while empty and while accessed by both a forceps and cytology brush.
The Ambu aScope 4© has the best performance in measured thumb force (Mean 4.15Nm/100o). The Pentax EB15-S01 has the smallest outer diameter and the largest working channel but has the greatest loss in angulation when its working channel is occupied (-33o / -67o, -100o). The Pentax EB15-S01 deviated the most from its reported specifications. The Vathin H-SteriScope provided the most angulation overall, including with its working channel in use (180o / 186o, 366o).
This research helps to inform the practical usability of each bronchoscope when deciding which SUFB is best for the physicians intended end use. Further research should look at perceived qualitative assessment of SUFB by clinicians.
Footnotes
Cite this article as Eur Respir J 2022; 60: Suppl. 66, 3844.
This article was presented at the 2022 ERS International Congress, in session “-”.
This is an ERS International Congress abstract. No full-text version is available. Further material to accompany this abstract may be available at www.ers-education.org (ERS member access only).
- Copyright ©the authors 2022
