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Lung Volume Reduction: Introduction
Lung Volume Reduction: Introduction
T
he concept of lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) is not new. The procedure was first introduced by Brantigan in the 1950s but abandoned because of technical problems, complications and unpredictable outcome. Since LVRS was reintroduced in 1995 by Cooper and his colleagues, significant progress has been made. A number of groups have reported favorable results in large series of well selected patients. Several prospective randomized trials have been published and the National Emphysema Treatment Trial has completed accrual and will report results soon. In this volume, the current status of LVRS is discussed in detail by recognized experts in the field. Dr. Bloch discusses the mandatory careful selection of patients for LVRS. The results are predictably good in well selected patients. Interpretation of radiologic images is critical in the evaluation of potential candidates. Dr. Gierada,
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who heads the LVRS imaging team at Washington University, discusses that aspect thoroughly. The evolving technical details of LVRS are described by Dr. DeCamp of the Cleveland Clinic. Taking into account the underlying emphysema and co-morbidity of LVRS patients, complications can be anticipated. Dr. Meyers discusses the Washington University experience with complications following LVRS. Quality of life assessment is an important measure of any surgical procedure. Dr. Roger Yusen has conducted a detailed quality of life assessment in patients undergoing LVRS at Washington University. In the closing manuscript, Dr. Cooper provides a sober reflection on data from available clinical trials and the future prospects for LVRS.
G. Alexander Patterson
Semznar.r zn ThoraCIC and Cardiovascular Surgery, Vol 14, No 4 (Octobtr) , 2002: p 36-1
Guest Editor
T
he concept of lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) is not new. The procedure was first introduced by Brantigan in the 1950s but abandoned because of technical problems, complications and unpredictable outcome. Since LVRS was reintroduced in 1995 by Cooper and his colleagues, significant progress has been made. A number of groups have reported favorable results in large series of well selected patients. Several prospective randomized trials have been published and the National Emphysema Treatment Trial has completed accrual and will report results soon. In this volume, the current status of LVRS is discussed in detail by recognized experts in the field. Dr. Bloch discusses the mandatory careful selection of patients for LVRS. The results are predictably good in well selected patients. Interpretation of radiologic images is critical in the evaluation of potential candidates. Dr. Gierada,
364
who heads the LVRS imaging team at Washington University, discusses that aspect thoroughly. The evolving technical details of LVRS are described by Dr. DeCamp of the Cleveland Clinic. Taking into account the underlying emphysema and co-morbidity of LVRS patients, complications can be anticipated. Dr. Meyers discusses the Washington University experience with complications following LVRS. Quality of life assessment is an important measure of any surgical procedure. Dr. Roger Yusen has conducted a detailed quality of life assessment in patients undergoing LVRS at Washington University. In the closing manuscript, Dr. Cooper provides a sober reflection on data from available clinical trials and the future prospects for LVRS.
G. Alexander Patterson
Semznar.r zn ThoraCIC and Cardiovascular Surgery, Vol 14, No 4 (Octobtr) , 2002: p 36-1
Guest Editor