Diagnostically, flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy allows for Direct airway visualization down to, and including, subsegmental bronchi Sampling of respiratory secretions and cells via bronchial washings, brushings, and lavage of peripheral airways and alveoli Biopsy of endobronchial, parenchymal, and mediastinal structures Therapeutic uses include Suctioning of retained secretions Placing an endobronchial stent Removing foreign objects Using balloon dilation to relieve airway stenoses Table Rigid bronchoscopy is now used only when a wider aperture and channels are required for better visualization and instrumentation, such as when Investigating vigorous pulmonary hemorrhage (in which the rigid bronchoscope can better identify the bleeding source and, with its larger suction channel, can better suction the blood and prevent asphyxiation) Viewing and removing aspirated foreign bodies in young children Viewing obstructive endobronchial lesions for possible laser debulking or stent placement Contraindications Absolute contraindications to bronchoscopy include Acute respiratory failure with hypercapnia (unless the patient is intubated and ventilated) High-grade tracheal obstruction Inability to adequately oxygenate the patient during the procedure Untreatable life-threatening arrhythmias Relative contraindications to bronchoscopy include Recent myocardial infarction Uncooperative patient Uncorrectable coagulopathy Transbronchial biopsy should be done with caution in patients with uremia, superior vena cava obstruction, or pulmonary hypertension because of increased risk of bleeding.