Clinical vignette of bronchoscopic thermal vapour ablation: Malaysians’ first experience

Abstract

We report a case of severe emphysema with bullae in a patient who underwent the new technique of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction to the right upper lobe. He was symptomatic with breathlessness and frequent exacerbations. He was not deemed suitable for a surgical lung volume reduction or bullectomy due to a very low forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). Endobronchial valves were not considered due to the incomplete fissures. The case was carefully screened, and was discussed in a multidisciplinary meeting prior to the final decision. This was the first case in Malaysia of bronchoscopic thermal vapour ablation (BTVA) for severe advanced emphysema. Multiple experts were involved prior, during and after the procedure. Despite having a poor lung reserve, he came through the procedure successfully with no immediate complications. His serial spirometry showed a 50% improvement at six months compared to baseline. This case highlights the important role of a multidisciplinary meeting, expert opinion and the careful selection of which patients should undergo BTVA. The procedure should be carried out at a centre of excellence in order to achieve a successful procedure.