[Severe COPD can benefit from endobronchial valves]

Lung volume reduction using endobronchial one-way valves (EBV) have been introduced as a new treatment for end-stage COPD and emphysema. They cause the lung parenchyma distal to the valve to collapse by causing an atelectasis. Nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) studying the effects of insertion of EBVs in patients with severe emphysema were identified. In two of the RCTs both lungs were treated whereas in seven a unilateral approach was used. In comparison with optimal medical therapy, unilateral placement of EBVs resulted in clinically and statistically significant improvements in lung function, quality of life, and physical capacity in patients with heterogeneous or homogeneous emphysema. There were no significant differences in mortality. The frequency of serious complications and adverse events, especially pneumothorax, was higher. Bilateral EBV treatment did not show corresponding improvements in the outcome variables.