Bullectomy is a surgical procedure in which dilated air-spaces or bullae in lung parenchyma are removed.

[1] Common causes of dilated air-spaces include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema.

Patients with giant bullae filling half the thoracic volume and compressing relatively normal adjacent parenchyma are recommended for bullectomy.

[2][3] It is also indicated in severe dyspnea, repeated respiratory infections and spontaneous pneumothorax.

[4] The size of dilated air-spaces or bullae volume is the most important factor in relation to ventilator capacity post-bullectomy.