One-stage thoracoscopic resection of bilateral bronchiectasis

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Pulmonary Medicine

Background:

• Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition characterized by irreversible airway dilation.
• Surgical intervention is considered for localized, severe bronchiectasis refractory to medical management.
• Bilateral bronchiectasis presents unique surgical challenges, often requiring staged procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of one-stage thoracoscopic resection for bilateral bronchiectasis.
• To assess clinical outcomes, including symptom control and treatment duration.
• To determine the feasibility of a minimally invasive approach for bilateral lung resections.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 23 patients undergoing one-stage thoracoscopic resection for bilateral bronchiectasis (June 2009 - December 2020).
• Patient demographics, preoperative symptoms (hemoptysis, purulent sputum), and surgical details were recorded.
• Postoperative outcomes, including morbidity, mortality, and symptom resolution, were analyzed.

Main Results:

• 23 patients (average age 58.5 years, 74% female) underwent resection of an average of 5.26 lung segments.
• The majority presented with hemoptysis (74%).
• No surgical morbidity or mortality was observed. Symptoms of hemoptysis and purulent sputum were effectively controlled post-surgery, with an average hospital stay of 8 days.

Conclusions:

• One-stage thoracoscopic resection is a safe and well-tolerated option for carefully selected patients with bilateral localized bronchiectasis.
• This approach can effectively manage symptoms and potentially shorten the overall treatment course compared to staged procedures.