[An evaluation of surgical treatment for giant bullae]

Abstract

We have experienced 67 operative cases of giant emphysematous bullae of the lung. For the bilateral lesions, two stage operation was performed in five cases and one stage operation under median-sternotomy in 12 cases. Twenty six cases were subjected to Naclerio-Langer's method, 25 cases to partial resection or plication and 15 cases to lobectomy. At the earlier period lobectomy was the treatment of choice, but, recently lobectomy was avoided for the conservation of pulmonary function. In terms of the improvement of pulmonary function, there was no difference between Naclerio-Langer's method and partial resection by Autosuture. In conclusion, for the treatment of giant bullae, partial resection by Autosuture is preferable because of improvement of pulmonary function and one stage median-sternotomy for bilateral lesions also are effective.