A Simple method for predicting pulmonary function after lung resection

Abstract

A simple method for preoperative prediction of lung function following pulmonary resection is described. The principle of the method is assessment of the ventilated part of the lung which possibly will have to be resected. It is based on careful evaluation of the bronchoscopic and radiologic studies always performed in this category of patients. The accuracy of the predicted postoperative change in FEV_{1 sec} and VC is comparable to results obtained from standard radioisotope split lung function tests. The lung function seemed to improve between 1 and 6 months postoperatively.