Flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy and endobronchial tamponade in the management of massive hemoptysis.

Flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopic examination with systematic bronchial lavage was performed in ten patients with massive hemoptysis. Localization of the bleeding to the distal segments of the bronchial tree and endobronchial balloon tamponade were achieved in all cases. The technique is rapid, simple, and effective in controlling life-threatening hemoptysis in patients who are unsuitable for resection due to inadequate pulmonary reserve or other causes.