[An experimental study of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction medicine]

To evaluate the effect and safety of experimental bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) using an one-way valve designed independently.

The animal study was carried out from June to December 2008. Totally 36 valves were implanted in the target bronchi of 12 healthy male goats. CT scan, artery blood gas exchange and lung pathology were performed after 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks.

All the valves were implanted successfully, but 3 valves were expectorated at the end. The procedure was well tolerated. CT scan showed that for more than 45% (15/33) of the valves, the target lung tissue had collapsed. Lung pathology showed that the alveolar space was deflated and collapsed. Lymphocytes and monocytes infiltrated the interstitial tissue with some degree of fibrosis.

This animal study showed that the independently manufactured one way valve was effective and safe. The one way valve may be useful in the treatment of severe emphysema in the future.