Current evidence on the efficacy and safety of insertion of endobronchial valves for persistent air leaks is limited in both quantity and quality. Therefore, this procedure should only be used with special arrangements for clinical governance, consent and audit or research.
Clinicians wishing to undertake insertion of endobronchial valves for persistent air leaks should take the following actions:
Inform the clinical governance leads in their Trusts.
Ensure that patients understand the uncertainty about the procedure's safety and efficacy, and provide them with clear written information. In addition, the use of NICE's information for the public is recommended.
Audit and review clinical outcomes of all patients having insertion of endobronchial valves for persistent air leaks (see section 3.1).
Selection of patients for insertion of endobronchial valves for persistent air leaks should be done by a multidisciplinary team including a chest physician and a thoracic surgeon.
NICE encourages further reporting about patient selection and outcomes (including long-term outcomes). NICE may review the procedure on publication of further evidence.