Single Use or Disposable Flexible Bronchoscopes: Bench Top and Preclinical Comparison of Currently Available Devices

BACKGROUND: Data regarding the risk of infection related to reusable bronchoscopes, the global drive toward disposable technology and the COVID-19 pandemic have led to an increase in the use and production of single use or disposable bronchoscopes. An in-depth comparison of all available devices has not been published. METHODS: A benchtop comparison of the Ambu(®)aScope(TM), Boston Scientific(®) EXALT(TM) Model B, the Surgical Company Broncoflex(©) Vortex, Pentax(®) Medical ONE Pulmo™, and Vathin(®) H-Steriscope(TM) (all 2.8 mm inner dimension other than the Pentax single-use flexible bronchoscope (3 mm)) was undertaken including measurement of maximal flexion and extension angles, thumb force required and suction with and without biopsy forceps. Thereafter, preclinical assessment was performed with data collected including experience, gender, hand size, and scope preference. RESULTS: The Vathin single-use flexible bronchoscope had the biggest range of tip movement from flexion to extension with and without forceps. The Boston single-use flexible bronchoscope required the maximal thumb force but had the least reduction of tip movement with forceps. The Boston single-use flexible bronchoscope significantly outperformed all other scopes including the standard Pentax scope and was the only scope capable of suctioning pseudo-mucus around the forceps. Although there was no significant difference in preference in the overall group, females and those with smaller hand size preferred the Pentax and males the Broncoflex single-use flexible bronchoscope. CONCLUSIONS: Currently available single-use flexible bronchoscopes differ in several factors other than scope sizes and monitor including suction, turning envelope, and handle size. Performance in the clinical setting will be key to their success.