ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the efficacy of thoracoscopic treatment of giant pulmonary bulla with complex conditions. Methods Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) was performed in 32 cases of giant pulmonary bulla with complex conditions in our department from September 2011 to November 2015. According to the dyspnea index of the American medical research council, there were 22 cases with distress index Ⅳ and 10 cases with distress index Ⅴ. Results All the patients underwent thoracoscopic surgery smoothly. The drainage tube was retained for 4-7 d in 17 cases, 8-14 d in 14 cases and 48 d in 1 case. The follow-up after operation was 12-18 months (mean, 16. 0 ± 3. 2 months). The dyspnea index was maintained at gradeⅠin 10 cases and gradeⅡin 22. All the patients were able to take care of themselves in daily life. Conclusion Giant pulmonary bulla with complex conditions can be treated under thoracoscopy with good surgical outcomes.
ABSTRACT
Giant pulmonary bulla (GPB) is a rare manifestation of emphysema and usually enlarges gradually over time, occasionally resulting in complications. Hence, more often than not, the surgical intervention of a Bullectomy is the standard method of treatment for GPB. However, there are case reports that show the complete resolution of GPB after its inflammation process even without surgical intervention. A 51-year-old man was admitted to our clinic due to pleuritic pain. After a chest X-ray and CT scan, a new air-fluid level within the GPB was revealed in the right upper lobe of his lung. His clinical status had improved promptly with intravenous antibiotics. A one-year follow-up study showed the GPB was completely resolved.