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Lung volume reduction surgery as an emergency and life-saving procedure
B Hansson1, P G Jorens, P van Schil
1Dept of Surgery, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium.
The European Respiratory Journal
|January 13, 1998
Summary
Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) offers a life-saving option for severe emphysema patients. This case study shows LVRS significantly improved lung function and sustained benefits in a critically ill patient.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology and Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Severe emphysema poses significant therapeutic challenges.
- Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) is an option for select patients.
Observation:
- A 51-year-old male with generalized emphysema developed bilateral pneumothoraces, respiratory insufficiency, and sepsis.
- Despite multiple interventions including six chest tubes, a massive air leak persisted.
Findings:
- Bilateral LVRS via median sternotomy, involving resection of diseased upper lobes and pleurectomy, was performed as a last resort.
- Post-surgery, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) increased by nearly 100%, with sustained improvement at 18 months.
Implications:
- LVRS can be a life-saving procedure in complex, severe emphysema cases.
- This case highlights the potential efficacy of LVRS in critically ill patients with persistent air leaks.