[Radiological Aspects of Surgery to Reduce Lung Volume].

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Conservative treatments for COPD with emphysema are often insufficient.
• Lung transplantation is not always a feasible option for advanced emphysema patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline therapeutic options for emphysema when conservative management fails and transplantation is not possible.
• To emphasize the importance of patient selection and diagnostic imaging in lung volume reduction procedures.

Main Methods:

• Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) techniques including apical shaving, targeted resection, and complete flap resection.
• Minimally invasive bronchoscopic therapies such as one-way valves, endobronchial coils, and water vapor ablation.
• Radiological diagnostics including computed tomography (CT) for emphysema quantification and fissure integrity assessment.
• Nuclear medicine examinations for additional diagnostic information in complex cases.

Main Results:

• Both surgical and bronchoscopic lung volume reduction require precise patient selection.
• Accurate radiological assessment is essential for effective treatment planning.
• Nuclear medicine provides valuable supplementary data, especially in intricate cases.

Conclusions:

• Lung volume reduction is a key therapeutic strategy for specific emphysema patients.
• Interdisciplinary evaluation integrating all diagnostic findings is vital for optimal treatment decision-making.