[Large bullous lung emphysema--bronchial asthma: surgical intervention in the stage of respiratory decompensation].

In the presence of large-bullae transformation of the lung parenchyma, resection of bullae may be indicated in the individual case, also in the stage of respiratory decompensation with generalised respiratory failure and right heart failure. The indication for this may be urgent, and the operation may even lead to a long-term improvement in pulmonary function. Two cases histories are presented to illustrate this.