Flexible laryngotracheobronchoscopy (FLTB) in the diagnosis of children’s diseases: our experience

Abstract

The most frequent diseases of the respiratory system in children affect the airways. Airway problems usually start to occur at a very young age, in neonates, infants and children under 10 years of age. Airway endoscopy is of the utmost importance in the diagnosis of these conditions. Flexible laryngotracheobronchoscopy (FLTB) is a superior method currently used for this purpose. There are numerous indications for FLTB in children, to mention only the most common ones: congenital stridor, recurrent airway inflammation, impossible extubation, respiratory crisis, etc. In the present study, FLTB procedures performed under general anaesthesia by Zagreb University Children’s Hospital ENT specialists during the 2003-2008 period were analyzed retrospectively. Out of 102 FLTB procedures, 71 were the first ever procedures, whereas 31 were done as repeat FLTB (for follow up, lavage, sampling for analysis, etc.). Sixty four (62.7%) of 102 children were up to one year of age. The three most common indications for FLTB were congenital stridor, prolonged intubation, and follow up, whereas laryngomalacia was the most common diagnosis. The procedure was not associated with any complications. In conclusion, FLTB is a highly useful, first-choice and relatively safe method in the diagnosis of pathologic respiratory conditions and diseases in children.