COPD: Lung Volume Reduction Surgery

Surgery Overview

Lung volume reduction (LVR) is a treatment that may be done for some people with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung damage from emphysema. LVR can be done as a surgery or a procedure. LVR can help your lungs work better.

When LVR is done as a surgery, a large area of damaged lung is removed. When LVR is done as a procedure, your doctor uses a bronchoscope. This is a thin tube that is used to look into your lungs and airways. The tube is used to put tiny valves inside some of the damaged airways. The valves let trapped air out of damaged parts of your lungs.

For some people, LVR may help relieve their shortness of breath, help them be more active, and improve their quality of life. But not all patients who have emphysema or COPD will benefit from this surgery.

Detailed testing is needed to find out if a person is likely to be helped by LVR. Talk with your doctor about all of the treatment options available for COPD.