Bronchoscopic treatment of lung tumors

Lung Cancer. 1994 Jul;11(1-2):1-17. doi: 10.1016/0169-5002(94)90278-x.

Abstract

Several bronchoscopic techniques for the treatment of patients with tracheobronchial pathology have become available during the last decade. Technical development and additional instruments have provided the bronchoscopist with several alternatives for bronchoscopic therapeutic interventions. The majority of patients with malignant tracheobronchial neoplasm have a dismal prognosis. Palliation is the main aim of the treatment. However, in patients with an early-stage tumor, bronchoscopic treatment may have a curative potential. Resectability, after tumor reduction by a bronchoscopic treatment, may be improved. This article discusses various bronchoscopic techniques, the advantages and disadvantages of each method and the possible benefit which can be derived from such a treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Airway Obstruction / etiology
  • Airway Obstruction / surgery
  • Brachytherapy / instrumentation
  • Bronchoscopy*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Cryosurgery / instrumentation
  • Diathermy / instrumentation
  • Electrocoagulation / instrumentation
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy / instrumentation
  • Lung Neoplasms / complications
  • Lung Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Lung Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Palliative Care
  • Photochemotherapy / instrumentation