Video-assisted thoracoscopic management for emphysema associated with contralateral destroyed lung

Background: Surgery can be quite challenging in condition that contralateral lung has no function. We report 3 cases of emphysema associated with contralateral destroyed lung managed with the use of video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). Methods: From December 2007 to December 2008, 3 patients of emphysema associated with contralateral destroyed lung were operated on by VATS. There were two pulmonary wedge resections and mechanical pleurodesises for pneumothorax and one lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) for worsening dyspnea. Their records were reviewed retrospectively. Results: No postoperative mortality was observed. One case for pneumothorax experienced prolonged postoperative air leakage. Of all the three cases, two cases for pneumothorax had no recurrence and one case for worsening dyspnea had improved lung function. Conclusions: VATS for emphysema associated with contralateral destroyed lung is feasible in selected patients.