Segmental Resections

Abstract

Segmental resections were commonly performed for tuberculosis. Since the advent of effective antituberculous therapy this is no longer the case; however, these procedures are still useful. Basal segments are commonly affected by bronchiectasis and a resection that preserves functioning lung is to be recommended. Upper lobe segmental resections, the most common for TB, are now infrequently performed, although some surgeons recommend segmentectomy for a well-circumscribed intrapulmonary tumour when a more extensive resection would not be tolerated by the patient. Screening programmes are identifying small peripheral cancers and there is renewed interest in sublobar resections for such tumours.