Virtual reality integrated pulmonary rehabilitation in post-teratoma excision lung collapse

This case report details the rehabilitation of a male child in early teenage who developed complete left lower lobe collapse following surgical excision of a large mediastinal teratoma. The patient came with recurrent chest infections with severe bronchomalacia and other significant post-operative pulmonary complications. A comprehensive rehabilitation programme for 90 days was designed, with emphasis on integration of virtual reality (VR) exercises to promote lung expansion and improve overall fitness and quality of life. This led to marked radiological and clinical improvements which avoided the need for a repeat invasive bronchoscopy. This report highlights the potential of VR as a powerful modality in pulmonary rehabilitation for post-surgical lung collapse.