Survey of Bronchoscopy Practice in Singapore

Background Flexible bronchoscopy is a widely used diagnostic and research tool in pulmonary medicine. As evolving techniques and technology continue to influence practice trends, it is opportune for a survey on bronchoscopy practice in Singapore. Methods A 30-question survey related to bronchoscopy, training, and physician demographics was sent to every pulmonologist in Singapore. Results Twenty-eight completed questionnaires out of 41 were returned giving a response of 68%. Twenty-three pulmonologists (82%) practiced in academic institution, and 5 (18%) in private practice. All pulmonologists were ≤50 years of age, and had been performing bronchoscopy for ≥5 years. All received training in flexible bronchoscopy, 9 (32%) in rigid bronchoscopy, 8 (29%) in Nd-YAG laser, 7 (25%) in brachytherapy, 6 (21%) in stent placement, 4 (14%) in electrosurgery, and 2 (7%) in endobronchial ultrasonography. The number of procedures/y performed by pulmonologists in private practice was ≤10, which was in contrast to ≥50 by those in academic institutions (P<0.05). Chest radiograph was considered important, and most pulmonologists preferred pethidine, midazolam, or both. Majority believed guidelines were necessary, at least 50 bronchoscopies to achieve competence and 10 per year to maintain the skill. Conclusions Results from this survey provide information that is important for the development of national guidelines pertaining to bronchoscopy practice and training in Singapore. Such guidelines will serve to help national bodies design and implement programs that assure competency in bronchoscopy.