[Indications and techniques for surgical treatment of pulmonary emphysema]

We compared two surgical treatments for pulmonary emphysema: unilateral thoracoscopic surgery and bilateral volume reduction (pneumectomy). There were no significant complications with either technique. Symptoms were relieved and pulmonary function improved with both. Post-operative pain was more severe and postoperative blood loss was greater after pneumectomy, but the improvement in pulmonary function was also greater. Possible advantages of bilateral thoracoscopic surgery over pneumectomy should be studied.