Effect of bronchoscopy on gas exchange and respiratory mechanics in critically ill patients with atelectasis: An observational cohort study

Background: Atelectasis frequently develops in critically ill patients and may result in impaired gas exchange among other complications. The long-term effects of bronchoscopy on gas exchange and the effects on respiratory mechanics are largely unknown. Objective: To evaluate the effect of bronchoscopy on gas exchange and respiratory mechanics in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with atelectasis. Methods: A retrospective, single-center cohort study of patients with clinical indication for bronchoscopy because of atelectasis diagnosed on chest X-ray (CXR). Results: In total, 101 bronchoscopies were performed in 88 ICU patients. Bronchoscopy improved oxygenation (defined as an increase of PaO 2 /FiO 2 ratio > 20 mmHg) and ventilation (defined as a decrease of > 2 mmHg in partial pressure of CO 2 in arterial blood) in 76 and 59% of procedures, respectively, for at least 24 h. Patients with a low baseline value of PaO 2 /FiO 2 ratio and a high baseline value of PaCO 2 were most likely to benefit from bronchoscopy. In addition, in intubated and pressure control ventilated patients, respiratory mechanics improved after bronchoscopy for up to 24 h. Mild complications, and in particular desaturation between 80 and 90%, were reported in 13% of the patients. Conclusions: In selected critically ill patients with atelectasis, bronchoscopy improves oxygenation, ventilation, and respiratory mechanics for at least 24 h.