ABSTRACT
Interpretation of lower airway findings from bronchoscopy is crucial to evaluating and managing pulmonary pathophysiology in pediatric patients. Understanding normal airway anatomy is necessary to be able to identify abnormalities that impact the management of the patient. This chapter describes the normal pediatric lower airway, as well as common findings encountered at various levels of the trachea and bronchial tree, using images and videos for demonstration and to enhance understanding. Findings related to complications from tracheostomy tube placement are briefly discussed. Clinical pearls and tips for practice are included. Bronchoscopic evaluation of the lower airways is an important tool to help understand pulmonary disease in pediatric patients. Pathology can occur at any level of the lower airway, and a complete evaluation is essential to provide a comprehensive and thorough evaluation.
