Transbronchial catheterization of pulmonary abscesses.

A major indication for bronchoscopy in patients with pulmonary abscess is the need to establish adequate drainage. Often, associated bronchial swelling precludes direct entry into the cavity with standard suctioning devices. Satisfactory drainage may require numerous bronchoscopic procedures, prolonging hospitalization and subjecting the patient to the complications of pyogenic pulmonary abscess. We have recently adopted the technique of passing angiography catheters through the rigid bronchoscope into the abscess cavity, thereby facilitating the bacteriological diagnosis and drainage of the cavity.