Unilateral Versus Bilateral Endoscopic Lung Volume Reduction A Comparative Case Study

Unilateral vs. Bilateral IBV Placement

Patients with bilateral heterogeneous pulmonary emphysema benefit to differing degrees from unilateral ELVR with complete lobe closure in comparison with incomplete bilateral treatment.

Patient enrolment and data acquisition is to be carried out on a prospective basis. It is planned to enrol a total of 20 patients with bilateral heterogeneous pulmonary emphysema. All patients will undergo treatment at one study centre in Heidelberg. Patients will be considered for both unilateral and bilateral treatment with intrabronchial valves (IBV) on the basis of their emphysema distribution. Patients will be randomised to two treatment arms. 10 patients receive unilateral or bilateral treatment in each case.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age > 40 inhomogeneous emphysema FEV1 between 20-40% DLCO between 20-40% 6MWT > 150 m

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnant homogeneous disease FEV1 < 20%