Intermittent positive pressure inflation during fiberoptic bronchoscopy.

We describe a new technique for diagnostic fiberoptic bronchoscopic procedures under general anesthesia. The technique of inflation via nasotracheal catheter, which consists of using intermittent high inflating pressure for ventilation by passing a double catheter through the nose to the glottis and into the trachea, gave very satisfactory ventilaton, with high levels of oxygen in the blood. Intratracheal pressure was monitored continuously to guarantee safety, and pulmonary function was assessed before and after the procedure. Continuous electrocardiographic monitoring was used, and blood gas levels were determined at very frequent intervals. The use of infusions of methohexitone and succinylcholine (suxamethonium) provided adequate safe anesthesia and prompt recovery, with absence of recall of the procedure.