Economic Considerations of Lung Volume Reduction Surgery and Bronchoscopic Valves

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a challenging disease to treat, and at advanced stages of the disease, procedural interventions become some of the only effective methods for improving quality of life. However, these procedures are often very costly. This article reviews the medical literature on cost-effectiveness of lung volume reduction surgery and bronchoscopic valve placement for lung volume reduction. It discusses the anticipated costs and economic impact in the future as technique is perfected and outcomes are improved.

Keywords: Bronchial valve; Cost-effective; Emphysema; Lung volume reduction surgery; QALY.