Therapeutic bronchoscopy improves spirometry, quality of life, and survival in central airway obstruction.

Background: Central airway obstruction (CAO) occurs in patients with primary or metastatic lung malignancy and nonmalignant pulmonary disorders and results in significant adverse effects on respiratory function and quality of life.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the effect of therapeutic bronchoscopic interventions on spirometry, dyspnea, quality of life, and survival in patients with CAO.

Methods: We prospectively studied patients who underwent therapeutic rigid bronchoscopy for CAO.