Preoperative Immersive Virtual Reality Planning and Simulation of Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction Using...

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Medical Technology
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) using endobronchial valves is a key treatment for advanced emphysema.
• Severe dyspnea in emphysema patients necessitates innovative therapeutic approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of virtual reality (VR) in preoperative planning for BLVR.
• To assess the impact of VR-assisted planning on procedural efficiency and operator confidence.

Main Methods:

• A 74-year-old male patient with severe emphysema underwent VR-assisted planning for BLVR targeting the right middle lobe.
• High-resolution CT imaging was used for VR modeling, enabling detailed bronchial tree visualization and simulation.
• The Chartis system confirmed absence of collateral ventilation, and a size 5.5 endobronchial valve was placed in the right B4/5 bronchus.

Main Results:

• VR planning facilitated comprehensive airway assessment, optimized valve sizing, and simulated the procedure.
• The VR approach reduced cognitive load, enhancing operator efficiency and confidence.
• The patient remained stable postoperatively without complications, demonstrating successful intervention.

Conclusions:

• VR-assisted planning significantly enhances the preparation and execution of BLVR procedures.
• This technology offers improved airway assessment and procedural simulation for complex bronchoscopic interventions.
• Further research is recommended to validate VR's role in improving outcomes for bronchoscopic procedures.