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Endoscopic biopsy curettes designed to remove superficial tissue from the internal wall of the bronchial tree through a flexible endoscope (i.e., bronchoscope), usually under imaging (e.g., fluoroscopic, helical computed tomography) guidance. These curettes are typically disposable manual instruments with a long flexible (e.g., double-hinged) shaft; a distal working end that resembles a very narrow solid spoon with sharp edges and a size appropriate (typically less than 2 mm diameter) for introduction through the working channel of a flexible bronchoscope; and a proximal end with a mechanism that permits manipulation (e.g., flexion, rotation) of the working end. Flexible bronchoscopic biopsy curettes are typically used to obtain samples of large- or fine-diameter bronchial tissue and/or tumors.
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