Bilateral lung volume reduction surgery for treatment of emphysema.

Patients suffering from chronic pulmonary emphysema can benefit from a new surgical technique that offers them relief from chronic dyspnea and declining quality of life. Bilateral lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) involves an innovative surgical stapling technique for removing emphysematous lung tissue. To prevent persistent air leaks, surgeons use bovine pericardium strips to reinforce surgical staple lines created during bilateral LVRS. Perioperative nurses should understand the disease process of chronic pulmonary emphysema, bilateral LVRS techniques, and possible postoperative complications to provide quality nursing care for patients undergoing LVRS procedures.