Use of endobronchial valve insertion to treat relapsing pneumothorax: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Backgorund and Aims: Unidirectional endobronchial valves have recently been shown to be beneficial as treatment for persistent air leaks. This report presents a first case of endobronchial valve implantation to treat relapsing pneumothorax in a Chinese patient, and also presents a review of the literature on the use of one-way valve insertion for the treatment of persistent air leaks. Methods: The patient did undergo a recent but failed chest tube intervention. By bronchoscopy and using Chartis® system measurements, the upper left lobe (including the left apical bronchus) was closed using a catheter. Results: After the expected decrease in airflow following bronchial occlusion, increased air pressure and decreased spilled air were noted; it was concluded that the pneumothorax was located in the left upper lobe. A Zephyr® endobronchial valve was placed in the left upper apical bronchus. The health benefits of the procedure were noticed in the following days. Conclusion: Our review suggests that the use of endobronchial valves could be used as an effective, minimally invasive, low-risk intervention for patients with pneumothorax that cannot be treated surgically.