title: [Bullectomy of giant bullae gave significant improvement of lung function].
abstract: A 49-year-old male smoker experienced acute deterioration of a progressive breathlessness. Spontaneous pneumothorax was diagnosed, and drainage was applied. Subsequent computed tomography revealed severe bilateral emphysematous bullae with right-sided predominance, and basal atelectasis. A lung function test showed severe obstructive disease. Right-sided bullectomy was performed through anterior thoracotomy with removal of giant bullae. Postoperative examination revealed markedly improved lung function and expansion of right-sided, previously consolidated lung tissue.
authors.affiliation: Hjerte-lunge-kirurgisk Afdeling, Kardiovaskulært Forskningscenter, Aalborg Sygehus, Hobrovej 18-22, Aalborg. m.hoeltzermann@rn.dk
authors.forename: Mette
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Høltzermann
authors.forename: Lars
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Borgberg Møller
mesh_terms: D001768:Blister / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005541:Forced Expiratory Volume; D006801:Humans; D008173:Lung Diseases, Obstructive / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011013:Pneumonectomy; D011656:Pulmonary Emphysema / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014797:Vital Capacity