Pulmonary Bullae

Original Editor - Lucinda hampton

Top Contributors - Lucinda hampton  

Introduction

Large bulla R lung, absence of lung markings.

A pulmonary bulla is an air-filled space, greater than 1 cm in diameter, that develops within the lung due to emphysematous damage of the lung. Pulmonary emphysema itself causes destruction of the distal lung design with lasting expansion of the alveolar space distal to the terminal bronchiole. Significantly 80% percent of patients presenting with bullae suffer from emphysema, a subset of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Pathology

The development of lung bullae is heterogenis. Most commonly they are COPD-related emphysematous bullae, whilst ventilator-associated lung bullae are a rarity.

Treatment

Management options are manifold, for example; simply treating the underlying disease; ventilation strategies to prevent progression of the bullous lung disease; and surgical or bronchoscopic intervention.

Physiotherapy

Treatment will involves a respiratory therapists. 

• Clients need to be educated on the correct use of inhaler and the use of spacers in conjunction with inhalers. 
• Pulmonary rehabilitation is also an important element of treatment.
• Telehealth may have a role as a cost-effectiveness resource, however this still requires further evaluation.

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