Air sacs (bullae) can form in the lungs from birth or as a result of chronic bronchitis and emphysema. These sacs do not take part in breathing themselves; they swell and occupy space, compressing the healthy lung that should do the work of breathing and preventing it from functioning. For this reason, treatment is surgical removal of these sacs.
What is lung volume reduction surgery?
Lung volume reduction surgery is a treatment option for patients with severe emphysema or chronic bronchitis (COPD). In this operation, damaged lung tissue is removed, usually about 20–30 percent of each lung. Removing the diseased areas reduces the volume of the lung and allows it to function better.
The decision to operate should be made jointly by a pulmonologist and a thoracic surgeon.