A NOVEL interventional treatment combining airway valve implantation in the right upper (RUL) and middle lobes (ML) has shown potential benefits for patients with severe pulmonary emphysema, particularly those with heterogeneous disease patterns.
The retrospective study analysed data from 28 patients treated at Thoraxklinik Heidelberg between 2012 and 2023. The procedure, aimed at endoscopic lung volume reduction, involves placing one-way valves in the RUL and ML to reduce airflow to damaged lung regions and improve function in healthier areas.
While the overall cohort did not exhibit significant improvements in lung function or six-minute walking distance (6-MWD), patients with heterogeneous emphysema, comprising 71.4% of the study group showed notable gains. By the 90-day follow-up, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) increased by 116 mL and 6-MWD improved by 50.23 meters (both p < 0.05). These outcomes correlated with baseline differences in emphysema volume between the treated lobes and the right lower lobe (R = 0.74, p < 0.001).
Complications were observed, including pneumothorax in 14.3% of patients and severe pneumonia or COPD exacerbations in 32.1%. Despite these risks, the treatment appears effective for carefully selected patients.
“This combined valve approach offers a promising strategy for patients with severe heterogenous emphysema, addressing a critical need for improved interventions,” the authors concluded.
Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and refine patient selection criteria, potentially broadening the reach of this innovative therapy.
Aleksandra Zurowska, EMJ
Reference
Dittrich AS et al. Outcome and safety 90 days after combined airway valve treatment of the right upper and middle lobes in patients with severe pulmonary emphysema. Respir Res. 2025;DOI: 10.1186/s12931-024-03069-6.
