Am J Perinatol 1983; 1(1): 52-57
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1000053
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1983 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Localized Pulmonary Interstitial Emphysema: Treatment by Bronchial Occlusion

David A. Auerbach1 , Lillian R. Blackmon2 , Howard C. Filston1 , David F. Merten1 , Donald R. Kirks1
  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
  • 2Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
04 March 2008 (online)

ABSTRACT

Selective bronchial occlusion for the treatment of localized cystic pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) offers a means to facilitate weaning from ventilatory support and to preserve potentially functional lung parenchyma. We employed a commercially manufactured balloon catheter, placed under direct visualization to occlude a left mainstem bronchus in two cases of localized PIE. This is the safest method for selective bronchial occlusion so far reported. Therapeutic success was achieved with either continuous or intermittent bronchial occlusion. Evaluation of pulmonary function with nuclear scintigraphy aids in determining the most appropriate position for the occluding catheter and permits assessment of the resultant improvements in pulmonary function.