Lung lavage fluids, also known as pulmonary lavage fluids, refer to the solutions used during a medical procedure called lung lavage or bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Lung lavage is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure performed to collect fluid and remove debris or foreign substances from the airways and lungs.
The fluid used in lung lavage is typically a sterile solution, such as normal saline or a diluted medication, which is instilled into the lungs through a bronchoscope— a thin, flexible tube inserted into the airways. The fluid is then gently flushed and aspirated to collect samples of the lung's contents.
Lung lavage fluids serve multiple purposes during this procedure. Firstly, they act as a vehicle for sampling and collecting biological material, such as cells, microorganisms, or secretions, from the airways and alveoli. These samples are subsequently examined for diagnostic purposes, such as identifying the presence of pathogens or abnormal cells.
Secondly, lung lavage fluids facilitate the removal of various substances, such as blood, pus, mucus, or toxic materials, from the lungs. By instilling the fluid and then removing it, the lavage process helps clear the airways and improve lung function by eliminating debris or harmful substances that may impair breathing.
Overall, lung lavage fluids play a critical role in the procedure of lung lavage, assisting in both diagnostic investigations and therapeutic interventions to improve respiratory health.
