[Surgery of emphysematous bullae and pulmonary cysts (author's transl)]

Following a survey of operations performed at the Ruhrland clinic, particular reference is made to the surgical treatment of emphysematous bullae and pulmonary cysts. In these cases, the frequent occurrence of a pneumothorax must here be mentioned. These large bullae are however frequently and incorrectly diagnosed as a pneumothorax. The treatment of these emphysematous bullae, which often occur on both sides of the thorax, is by means of a bilateral axillary thoracotomy. This operation can be carried out in one session, provided a distinct improvement of the pulmonal functions is expected.