BackgroundOne of the significant complications associated with Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS), which is a critical intervention for patients with advanced emphysema, is the development of postoperative air leaks. We have found that oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) can be used in LVRS to minimize postoperative air leaks and enhance recovery in our clinical work. This study evaluates the efficacy of a novel ORC application method in improving lung function and reducing complications in patients undergoing LVRS for emphysema. MethodsA comparative analysis was conducted on 83 patients who underwent LVRS, divided into two groups: 41 received ORC (ORC group), and 42 did not (No-ORC group). Lung function parameters, including Forced Expiratory Volume in One Second (FEV1), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC ratio, and FEV1% predicted, were measured preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Postoperative outcomes, such as the duration of chest tube placement, hospital stay, and the incidence of air leaks, were also compared. ResultsPreoperative characteristics, including age, sex, smoking history, Body Mass Index (BMI), and baseline lung function, were similar between the two groups. Postoperatively, both groups showed improvements in lung function. By 12 months, lung function parameters between the groups were comparable. The ORC group had a shorter duration of chest tube placement (mean 4.41 days vs. 6.76 days, P < 0.01) and hospital stay (mean 6.78 days vs. 9.12 days, P < 0.01). Additionally, the incidence of postoperative air leaks was lower in the ORC group compared to the No-ORC group (P < 0.01). ConclusionsThe novel application method of ORC in LVRS is associated with enhanced early postoperative recovery, reflected in shorter chest tube duration, reduced hospital stays, and a lower incidence of postoperative air leaks. And, long-term lung function outcomes between ORC and No-ORC groups are similar.
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