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Published on: February 27, 2026
Endoscopic volume reduction before or after lung transplantation
Marie Destors1, Wahju Aniwidyaningsih, Adrien Jankowski
1Clinique de Pneumologie, CHU Grenoble, Grenoble, France. mdestors@chu-grenoble.fr
Summary
Endobronchial valve therapy offers a safe alternative to lung volume reduction surgery for severe emphysema. This minimally invasive treatment successfully improved lung function and reduced breathlessness in two patients.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Interventional Bronchoscopy
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Severe emphysema causes pulmonary hyperinflation, significantly impacting lung function and quality of life.
- Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) is an option, but carries substantial morbidity.
- Endobronchial valves (EBVs) offer a less invasive approach to lung volume reduction.
Observation:
- Two patients with severe emphysema underwent endobronchial valve placement.
- The procedure was performed using a flexible bronchoscope under local anesthesia.
- Lobar collateral ventilation measurements were used to predict potential benefits.
Findings:
- Both patients experienced improved forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC).
- Dyspnea (shortness of breath) significantly improved in both cases within two months post-procedure.
- Successful outcomes were achieved in one patient pre-lung transplant and another post-lung transplant.
Implications:
- Endobronchial valve therapy demonstrates comparable clinical benefits to LVRS with potentially lower risk.
- This technique provides a viable treatment option for severe emphysema, even in lung transplant recipients.
- Further research into EBV therapy can refine treatment protocols for advanced lung disease.
