Rehabilitation Management of a Patient with Bilateral Pulmonary Bullae after Multiple Surgeries and Post-Tuberculosis Lung Disease

Tifany, Elisabeth Pauline
Tambunan, Tresia Fransiska Ulianna

MAGNA MEDICA: Berkala Ilmiah Kedokteran dan Kesehatan
Vol 12, No 1 (2025): FEBRUARY

Background:  Post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) is a prevalent finding in TB survivors. PTLD has many clinical presentations, including structural damage in the form of pulmonary bullae. Pulmonary bullae, along with PTLD, lead to significant impairment and morbidity in the patient. In some cases, a surgical approach is indicated for pulmonary bullae.Objective: This case study aims to discuss the rehabilitation management in PTLD, including post-surgical cases.Case Presentation: A 27-year-old male underwent lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) by wedge resection of the right superior lobe. The patient had a history of tuberculosis infection and a history of bilateral pneumothorax. The patient underwent pulmonary rehabilitation in ICU care as early as medically possible, and continued until the patient was transferred to the general ward. The patient tolerates the pulmonary rehabilitation program, and no adverse effects occurred due to pulmonary rehabilitation.Conclusion: Pulmonary rehabilitation is an essential part of cases involving PTLD, including post-surgical ones, and should be initiated as early as medically possible in inpatient and continued outpatient settings.