Endobronchial Lung Volume Reduction Therapies

Purpose of Review A variety of endobronchial lung volume reduction therapies have become available since the advent of lung volume reduction surgery. We provide a review of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) therapies for severe emphysema and discuss a practical approach to the use of endobronchial valves. Recent Findings Reversible and irreversible BLVR modalities have been developed over the past decade with the best evidence for endobronchial valves. Studies have identified the importance of determining which patient population would most benefit from BLVR, specifically those with heterogeneous emphysema and either complete fissures or lack of collateral ventilation. Summary BLVR is a therapeutic modality for patients with symptomatic emphysema despite optimal medical therapy, severe airflow obstruction, hyperinflation, and reduced exercise tolerance. There is strong evidence for modest improvements in exercise tolerance, health status, and lung function at 6–12 months with the use of endobronchial valves.