Urgent lung volume reduction surgery is effective for secondary pneumothorax in emphysema patients

Abstract

Secondary pneumothorax due to emphysema can be life-threatening and requires surgery in most situations. Here, we extended lung resection to close the fistula using lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS). We present a patient with COPD and secondary spontaneous pneumothorax referred after ineffective treatment by chemical pleurodesis. Urgent LVRS followed by elective LVRS was performed obtaining air-leak resolution and significantly improving pulmonary function and quality-of-life. We discuss the surgical technique and effectiveness of LVRS as treatment for pneumothorax.