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IPF, Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis

09/02/2010

Question:

I have all three of the above diseases. Recently the emphysema has began to accelerate. Would I be a candidate for lung reduction surgery?

Answer:

Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) is an option for a subset of persons with emphysema. While a definitive answer cannot be provided here, according to Medicare guidelines for LVRS, with a diagnosis of both COPD and IPF, it is unlikely that you would qualify for this surgery.

Lung transplantation may be an option if you meet the criteria. Please consider with these diagnoses to ask your physician to refer you to a formal outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation in your area.

For more information:

Go to the COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) health topic.