Has anyone had minimally invasive LVRS? If so, what has your experience been with it? The doctor has recommended it for my mother but I am a little leary since I cannot seem to find out much info regarding people's experiences with the surgery.

I belong to a couple of support groups for chronic obstructive lung disease and a number of members have had very good results from the lung volume reduction surgery. However, many of us are ineligible because the damage is dispersed throughout the lungs rather than localized in one area.

Has your mom participated in pulmonary rehab? Exercise has improved breathing for me and so many others--Some people begin rehab in wheelchairs and improve to where they are able to walk.

She has gone to therapy and has had a bit of improvement from it. Her emphysema is all in the upper left lobe of her lung. From what I have read she seems as though she would be a good candidate for the suregery. I am just nervous since I can't find any "real life" experiences with the surgery.

I wish I could post some quotes from two people who have had very good results from the surgery--it's probably against these rules. One was able to cut back on oxygen use and the other has had a good five years so far in a lot better condition than she was before. Your mom is the one limited by the condition of her lungs, so if she is willing to try, she should go for it.