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Lung volume reduction surgery in bronchopulmonary dysplasia
J Siaplaouras1, M Heckmann, I Reiss
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Giessen, Germany. siaplaouras@t-online.de
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|July 15, 2003
Summary
Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) significantly improved respiratory function in a preterm infant with acquired lobar emphysema. This surgical option can be effective for severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia in infants.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Surgery
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Acquired lobar emphysema is a rare complication in preterm infants, often associated with respiratory disease syndrome and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
- Prolonged artificial ventilation can contribute to the development of lung parenchymal damage.
Observation:
- A 29-week gestational age preterm infant developed severe acquired lobar emphysema.
- The infant experienced life-threatening hypoxemia and pulmonary hypertension, unresponsive to conservative management.
Findings:
- Atypical segmentectomy (lung volume reduction surgery - LVRS) was performed at 12 months of age.
- Post-surgery, the infant showed dramatic improvement in respiratory function, weight gain, and psychomotor development.
Implications:
- LVRS can be a viable therapeutic option for selected preterm infants with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia and acquired lobar emphysema.
- This case highlights the potential benefits of surgical intervention in managing refractory respiratory complications in neonates.