Emphysema is a chronic, progressive condition, commonly caused by smoking, which affects two million Americans. It is a breakdown in the walls of the air sacs of the lung, which cause them to become abnormally enlarged. These abnormally enlarged air sacs are unable to function properly.

It is common for people who suffer from emphysema to have some portions of the lung that are more affected than others. This finding led to the development of a surgical approach to treat emphysema known as Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS), which involves the removal of approximately 20-35% of the poorly functioning lung tissue from each lung. By reducing the lung size, the remaining lung and surrounding muscles are able to work more efficiently. This makes breathing easier and helps patients achieve greater quality of life.

Good Candidates

A good candidate for LVRS is someone who has stopped smoking for at least four months and has disabling emphysema despite complete medical therapy. Patients must be able to participate in a pulmonary rehabilitation program prior to and after surgery. Any other medical conditions that the candidate may have must be well controlled and must not present unacceptable risks for complications from the procedure. Most importantly, the patient must have a pattern of emphysema that is amenable to surgical management. This means that there are poorly functioning areas of the lung that can be removed to improve lung function.

Anticipated Benefits

• Relief of shortness of breath
• Improved lung function
• Increased energy level and physical mobility
• Improved ability to function at normal daily activities
• May decrease need for supplemental oxygen

Anyone who meets the general criteria can be considered for a formal evaluation. This would involve a thorough review of the patient’s medical history, physical exam, pulmonary function studies and imaging studies. These imaging studies can be done with your referring medical doctor or at USC University Hospital.