Apparatus for performing broncho-alveolar lavage and method of using

Abstract

Apparatus for performing broncho-alveolar lavage and method of using the apparatus using relatively low known pressures which may avoid damage, such as overexpansion and rupture of airways and alveoli, when too high a pressure is used. The apparatus includes a closed barrel device for receiving a predetermined quantity of broncho-alveolar lavage fluid, apparatus for applying a predetermined pneumatic pressure upon the upper surface of the broncho-alveolar lavage fluid, and a catheter, the distal end of which may be properly positioned in the portion of a patient's lung to be lavaged. The pressure applying apparatus includes a closed compartment forming an air chamber, and a fluid containing first bladder mounted within the air chamber, the air chamber being in communication with the closed air space in the barrel device above the lavage fluid. The hydraulic pressure applying device is a second bladder in an open container in fluid connection with the first bladder. In use, it is now only necessary to raise the open container a certain height above the closed container to cause fluid to flow from the second bladder to the first bladder pressurizing the air chamber. As this chamber is connected with the chamber in the syringe, the broncho-alveolar lavage fluid will be pressurized to this extent and be forced through the catheter into the lung. When the lavage fluid is aspirated into the syringe, the open container is lowered below the level of the closed container.