Flexible bronchoscopy should be performed only when the relative benefits outweigh the risks. Absolute contraindications include, but are not limited to:
- Absence of consent from the patient or his/her representative, unless a medical emergency exists and the patient is not competent to give consent.
- Lack of adequate facilities and personnel to care for emergencies such as cardiopulmonary arrest, pneumothorax, or bleeding.
- Inability to adequately oxygenate the patient during the procedure.
- For large patients, inability to place all three patient sensors within the sensing volume.
The danger of a serious complication from bronchoscopy is especially high in patients with the disorders listed below. These conditions are usually considered absolute contraindications, unless risk-benefit assessment warrants the procedure:
- Coagulopathy or bleeding diathesis that cannot be corrected.
- Severe obstructive airways disease.
- Severe refractory hypoxemia.
- Unstable hemodynamic status including dysrhythmias.
Relative contraindications or conditions involving increased risk for Fiber-optic Bronchoscopy in adults include but are not limited to:
- Recent myocardial infarction or unstable angina.
- Uremia and pulmonary hypertension (possibility of serious hemorrhage after biopsy).
- Lung abscess (danger of flooding the airway with purulent material).
- Respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation.
- Known or suspected pregnancy (because of radiation exposure).
CrossCountry™ transbronchial access tool
The CrossCountry™ transbronchial access tool is to be utilized through a flexible endoscope with an extended working channel by physicians who are trained in endoscopic techniques to puncture the tracheobronchial wall and facilitate access of additional endobronchial tools for patients with endobronchial lesions, peripheral lung nodules, or lung masses.
Always refer to the instructions for use included with the product for complete indications, contraindications, warnings, and precautions.
