Endobronchial one‐way valve for persistent air leak and lung volume reduction. Issue 7 (15th July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yu, Wai Cho; Kwok, Hau Chung; Chan, Yu Hong; Ho, Man Ying; Chan, Ming Chiu; Yeung, Yiu Cheong
• Is Part Of: Respirology case reports. Volume 7:Issue 7(2019)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2019-07-15
• Subjects: Emphysema -- endobronchial valve -- lung volume reduction -- persistent air leak -- pneumothorax; Respiratory organs -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 616.2005
• DOI: 10.1002/rcr2.461
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2051-3380

Abstract

Abstract : There are randomized controlled study data showing that endobronchial one‐way valves (EBV) are useful for bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR). There is also case series data showing EBV to be effective in stopping persistent air leaks complicating pneumothoraces. We describe a 66‐year‐old man with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who failed assessments for BLVR because of the inability to perform the carbon monoxide diffusion test but subsequently had EBV deployed to his right upper lobe bronchi for persistent air leak complicating a spontaneous pneumothorax. Afterwards, there was subjective improvement in breathlessness, exercise capacity, and reduced frequency of exacerbations requiring hospitalization. Lung function parameters showed marked improvement. This case suggests that patients with compatible spirometric lung volume and computed tomography findings should proceed with BLVR. In addition, one should be aware of the possibility of improved lung function in patients with pulmonary emphysema following implantation of EBV for persistent air leak. Abstract : Our patient with severe emphysema was denied bronchoscopic lung volume reduction by endobronchial valves because he failed the diffusion study. Later, he had endobronchial one‐way valves (EBV) deployed for treatment of persistent air leak complicating a pneumothorax. His clinical status and lung function showed marked improvement afterwards.