INITIAL RESULTS OF LUNG VOLUME REDUCTION BY BRONCHIAL VALVE FOR TREATING SERIOUS EMPHYSEMA.

Abstract

             The study’s objective is to assess the initial results of lung volume reduction by bronchial valve for treating serious emphysema. The study has been conducted on 20 patients with seriously localized emphysema. All the patients have been at the stable stage of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The patients received chest CT, pulmonary function measurements. The lung function parameters (FEV1, RV, TLC, Raw) and arterial blood gases have been measured before and after insertion of the valve (after 1 week, 1 month and 3 months). One-way valve called Zephyr has been placed into lobe or segment lobe bronchus via flexible bronchoscopy. Results: the 6-minute walk test at the moment of one month after insertion of the valve has increased significantly (339.4±59.91 m compared to 305.6±53.29 m). CAT index after one month of insertion has reduced remarkably (20.89±2.12 compared to 22.86±1.34); the average of FVC after 3 months has increased markedly (70.07±30.29% compared to 60.06±8.17%). The average of raw after one month has significantly reduced (654.1±347.8% compared to 714±320.79%).

The rate of complications after placing valve has been 70% including broke out exacerbation (20%) and fever (10%), but no serious complication. Conclusions: the lung volume reduction by placing bronchial valve for treatment of serious emphyssema has improved the quality of patient life that has revealed in improving well the index 6-minute walk test and lung function (CAT index, FEC, Raw). The technique has been carried out safely.