Endobronchial Valves in the Treatment of Persistent Air Leaks

EBVs are a useful adjunct in the management of persistent pulmonary air leaks, particularly when conventional interventions are contraindicated or not ideal. EBVs are well tolerated in the critically ill, have few known complications, are removable, and do not preclude future surgical intervention. Future studies should evaluate EBV efficacy versus the natural course of persistent pulmonary air leaks and their impact on cost and length of stay.