Evidence-based review of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction

Abstract

Emphysema sequentially leads to the loss of gas exchanging surface and an abnormal shape of the diaphragm generating dyspnea refractory to standard medical therapy. Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) is a surgical treatment option for patients with severe emphysema whose symptoms are uncontrolled on standard therapy. Bronchoscopic LVR (bLVR) is a process by which lung volume reduction is achieved in a minimally invasive manner using bronchoscopy-guided insertion of valves, coils, sealants, or by thermal vapour ablation like techniques. These therapies have developed over the last few years and have variable results in patients. We have summarized the current evidence available on each of these methods in this review.