Most patients stay in the hospital for 7-10 days, although some patients require a longer stay. Some patients with very advanced emphysema may be candidates for lung transplantation. Your physician will explain the risks and benefits of these procedures in more detail. Damage to the lung tissue from emphysema may continue to worsen - even in patients who show marked improvement after surgery. NETT is sponsored by the National, Lung and Blood Institute and Medicare.
All potential candidates receive a complete evaluation.
Those accepted into the study receive comprehensive treatment including pulmonary rehabilitation. Half of the patients are then randomly selected to receive lung volume reduction surgery. These studies include variations in current treatments as well as research into new therapies. It is not meant to be a substitute for consulting with your own physician. National Jewish Medical and Research Center is the nation's leading treatment center for respiratory diseases and immune disorders.