Effects of Endoscopic Lung Volume Reduction on Diaphragm Function and Conformation

Effects of Endoscopic Lung Volume Reduction on Diaphragm Function and Conformation

Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) is a common disease that is frequently complicated by hyperinflation. The resulting increase in lung volume impairs the diaphragmatic function because of a shortening of the diaphragmatic fibers and an increase in the radius of curvature of the diaphragmatic domes. Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) has already shown an improvement in diaphragmatic function that could be explained by a change of the diaphragm conformation. More recently, endoscopic lung volume reduction (ELVR) has shown benefits in terms of respiratory function, exercise capacity and quality of life, but the mechanisms of these improvements are poorly understood. Therefore, we aim to evaluate the evolution of the diaphragmatic function and the changes in diaphragmatic conformation after unilateral ELVR.

Inclusion Criteria:

• valves insertion

Exclusion Criteria:

• TLVR < 50 %