Abstract
Flexible and rigid bronchoscopes are complementary tools for the evaluation and treatment of a variety of airway disorders. Each device has its unique set of advantages and drawbacks. Although there are several instruments that can be used with either apparatus, the operation of each type of bronchoscope varies significantly. In the right hands, the combination of bronchoscopes forms the foundation of comprehensive airway disease management. They have a wide range of applications in the diagnosis and treatment of both benign and malignant airway diseases. Independent of the type of bronchoscope used, the cornerstones of procedural success remain the same: expert skillset, appropriate patient selection, optimal positioning, control of the procedural environment, deliberate movements, and an in-depth understanding of local anatomy. In this chapter, we discuss the history, design, and contemporary applications within thoracic medicine of these two essential tools.