Pune, Maharashtra : In a remarkable medical intervention, pulmonologists at DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri, successfully restored the function of a completely collapsed lung in a 27-year-old woman who had previously been advised that her condition was irreversible and that she would have to live with it permanently.
The patient had been diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and had completed nearly nine months of anti-tubercular treatment. Although the infection was successfully treated, it left behind severe scarring within the airways of her left lung. Over time, the scar tissue progressively narrowed and eventually sealed off the left main bronchus the primary airway carrying air into the lung.
As a result, her entire left lung collapsed, causing severe breathlessness and significantly affecting her quality of life. Owing to the extent of the damage, some medical experts believed the lung had become permanently non-functional, a condition often described as “autopneumonectomy,” where the lung behaves as though it has been surgically removed due to extensive disease and scarring.
Seeking another opinion, the patient consulted the Interventional Pulmonology team at DPU Super Specialty Hospital led by Dr. Rahul Kendre. Detailed evaluation suggested that the collapsed lung might still be salvageable if the airway obstruction could be safely reopened.
During a highly specialised bronchoscopy procedure, the team discovered that the entrance to the left main bronchus was completely sealed by dense scar tissue. Using advanced electrocautery techniques, the doctors carefully created a tiny opening through the scarred segment. A guidewire was then delicately passed across the blockage and its position confirmed under fluoroscopic imaging to ensure that the natural airway pathway was being restored safely.
Following successful access, the narrowed airway segments were gradually expanded using controlled radial expansion (CRE) balloon dilatation. Further narrowing was identified in the upper and lower branch airways of the left lung, which were also meticulously dilated. The team additionally removed thick mucus plugs that had accumulated behind the obstruction over time.
The results were immediate and dramatic. Air once again entered the previously collapsed lung, allowing it to re-expand. The patient’s breathing improved significantly, and a lung that had been considered permanently lost was successfully brought back into function.
The patient’s recovery was swift and encouraging. She was discharged from the hospital just three days after the procedure and has since reported a complete resolution of her breathlessness. With her lung function restored, she is now able to carry out her daily activities comfortably, resume exercise, and lead a normal, active life.
Commenting on the case, Dr. Rahul Kendre, Interventional Pulmonologist and lung Transplant Physician at DPU Super Specialty Hospital, said, “Tuberculosis can leave behind complex airway complications even after the infection has been cured. In many such cases, a collapsed lung may appear beyond recovery. However, advanced interventional pulmonology techniques can help us evaluate whether the lung still has the potential to function. This case demonstrates the importance of reassessing patients thoroughly before concluding that a lung is permanently lost.”
Dr. Rekha Arcot, Dean, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, said, “This case highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis, specialised expertise and the use of advanced medical techniques in managing complex respiratory conditions. The successful restoration of the patient’s lung function reflects the dedication of our medical team and the potential of innovative, minimally invasive procedures to significantly improve patients’ quality of life.”
Dr. Bhagyashree P. Patil, Pro-Chancellor, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pimpri, Pune, said, “It is encouraging to see a patient regain her quality of life through advanced and specialised pulmonary care. This achievement reflects our commitment to providing patients with access to innovative treatments and expert medical care.”
Dr. Yashraj Patil, Trustee & Treasurer, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pimpri, Pune, said, “Restoring the function of a lung that was considered permanently lost is a remarkable achievement. This case highlights the importance of specialised expertise, advanced technology and a thorough approach to complex respiratory conditions.”
The case highlights the growing role of interventional pulmonology in treating complex airway disorders and restoring lung function without the need for major surgery. It also underscores the importance of seeking specialist evaluation for patients experiencing persistent breathlessness or complications after tuberculosis treatment.
DPU Super Specialty Hospital continues to offer advanced diagnostic and therapeutic bronchoscopy services for complex airway diseases, lung collapse, post-tuberculosis complications, and other respiratory disorders, providing patients access to cutting-edge pulmonary care including lung transplant services for the terminal and irreversible lung diseases.
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