[Late results of resection treatment of bronchiectases with special reference to functional studies]

In 83 patients an unilateral pulmonary resection because of bronchiectasis was performed. The indication was unsuccessful medical treatment. Forty seven patients were re-examined clinically and radiologically and with spirometry and ergooxytensiometry 13.2 years (average) after operation. Good functional results were found in 72.1% of the patients. This justifies pulmonary resection for bronchiectasis even in the era of potent antibiotics. We preferred lobectomy because of its low postoperative complication rate and good functional late results. In bilateral bronchiectasis we operated upon the side with the advanced disease.