Arterial oxygen saturation during bronchography via the fibreoptic bronchoscope.

Bronchography is indicated in the investigation of recurrent or chronic respiratory infection and haemoptysis,1 and is used to assess the extent and location of suspected or known bronchiectasis.2 Use ofthe fibreoptic bronchoscope to introduce contrast medium has the advantages over the conventional nasotracheal catheter of allowing inspection of the airways for any occluding lesion and collection of microbiological specimens or cilia from specific bronchi. Continuous monitoring of arterial oxygen saturation (Sao2) in patients during bronchoscopy has shown that they may be at risk of desaturation.3 Furthermore, conventional bilateral bronchography via a nasotracheal catheter may cause falls in Sao2 of up to 15%.4 The aim of this study was to measure Sao2 during bilateral bronchography performed via the fibreoptic bronchoscope.