Eligibility for Lung Volume Reduction Surgery in Patients With COPD Identified in a UK Primary Care Setting.

Background: Although lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) improves survival in appropriately selected patients with COPD, few procedures are performed. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has recommended a more systematic approach to identifying potential candidates. We investigated LVRS referrals from a UK primary care population and aimed to establish an accurate estimate of eligible patients and determine a strategy for identifying potential candidates systematically.

Myocardial Infarction and Ischemic Stroke after Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

Rationale: Previous studies have suggested that acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be associated with increased risk of myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke.

Objectives: We aimed to quantify the increased risks of myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke risk associated with both moderate and severe acute exacerbation, and to investigate factors that may modify these risks.

Methods: We performed a self-controlled case series to investigate the rates of myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke after acute exacerbation compared with stable time, within individuals.