Imaging Advances in Bronchoscopy Through the Combination of High‐Definition Bronchoscopes and New Image Processing Systems

Abstract

ABSTRACT Bronchoscopy has become crucial with advances in diagnosing and treating lung cancer and interstitial pneumonia. Integrating bronchoscopes with endobronchial ultrasonography and navigation systems has significantly improved diagnostic yields and procedural safety. Although improvements in image quality and bronchoscope operability are evident, these benefits are often recognized based on widespread usage rather than objective assessment. In this study, we aimed to compare how the appearance of lesions changes depending on new modes on a case‐based images, with white light observation as a standard image. High‐definition bronchoscopes have introduced notable clinical advantages, enhancing direct visualization of lesions and enabling precise evaluation of histological changes. This enhanced visualization facilitates better detection of vascular patterns, which can improve safety during transbronchial biopsy by minimizing complications. The addition of the CV‐1500 image processor allows for comprehensive image enhancement, such as brightening peripheral bronchi, emphasizing the structural presence of lesions and blood vessels, and estimating blood vessel depth through color tone variations reflecting absorbance differences. The combination of high‐definition bronchoscopy and advanced image processing holds promise for accumulating more robust clinical knowledge and optimizing diagnostic strategies.

Keywords

• high‐definition (HD) bronchoscope
• red dichromatic imaging (RDI)
• texture and color enhancement imaging (TXI)