Uniportal Video-Assisted Anatomical Lung Volume Reduction Surgery in Severe Emphysema

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Pulmonary Medicine
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) is a key treatment for advanced emphysema.
• Traditional LVRS is often non-anatomical.
• Uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) offers a minimally invasive alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of anatomical LVRS performed via uniportal VATS.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of this technique in patients with severe emphysema.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 44 patients undergoing anatomical LVRS between June 2017 and September 2023.
• Data collected included patient demographics, lung function (FEV1, FEV1%), morbidity, and mortality.
• Procedures included lobectomy and segmentectomy.

Main Results:

• Postoperative lung function (FEV1, FEV1%) significantly improved at initial follow-up (11.8 months).
• 30-day mortality was 4.5% (2 patients).
• Long-term lung function (at 33.1 months) remained stable compared to preoperative values.

Conclusions:

• Anatomical LVRS via uniportal VATS is an effective treatment for severe emphysema.
• The procedure demonstrates acceptable morbidity and mortality rates.
• This technique provides a viable option for lung volume reduction in emphysema patients.