[Prevention of residual cavities in operations on the lungs using CO2 laser]

Operations were carried out on 60 patients with pyodestructive diseases of the lungs. Organ preserving operative interventions were performed with the use of a CO2 laser. For the prevention of disturbed air-tightness of pulmonary surfaces with removed pleura, the authors developed and used in 12 patients a method for temporary occlusion of the lobar or segmental bronchus during the operation or in the postoperative period. Complications linked with endobronchial occlusion were not encountered. Since the obturator remained in the bronchial lumen for a short time (3-12 days), the inflammatory reaction of the bronchial mucosa was minimal.