Bullectomy
Definition: A bullectomy is a surgical procedure whereby small portions of the lung, called bulla, are removed. Bulla are large areas (> 1 cm in diameter) in the lung filled with oxygen-depleted air. A bullectomy allows functioning alveoli, in the vicinity of the removed bulla, more room to expand and contract, thereby allowing for better breathing.
Published: 02/18/06
Sources: University of Piitsburgh, Medical Center (UPMC); University of California at San Francisco (UCSF)
