Which characteristics would suggest a bronchoscopy is occurring in the right main bronchus?

The characteristics of the right main bronchus are distinct compared to those of the left, which helps to identify when a bronchoscopy is occurring in that area. The right main bronchus is wider, shorter, and more vertically oriented than the left main bronchus.

The wider diameter facilitates the passage of larger structures, such as endotracheal tubes or bronchoscopy instruments. Its shorter length means that any bronchoscopy performed on the right main bronchus will be a quicker procedure due to a shorter distance to travel compared to the left. The more vertical orientation of the right main bronchus aligns more closely with the trachea, making it the more direct route for inhaled objects or instruments.

These anatomical features are essential for practitioners to understand, especially for procedures involving the lower airways, as they can affect the techniques and approaches used during bronchoscopy.