Dynamic Imaging of Physiological Dead Space and Alveolar Ventilation in Patients Undergoing Endobronchial Valve Therapy with HP Xenon MRI

Motivation: Endobronchial valve (EBV) treatment offers an alternative to lung volume reduction surgery for severe emphysema. However, patient outcomes vary, with some experiencing benefit loss over time, and current clinical metrics cannot fully explain this variability. Goal(s): To use hyperpolarized xenon-129 MRI to understand regional lung function changes and their relationship with patient outcomes following EBV therapy. Approach: We performed hyperpolarized xenon-129 MRI during spontaneous breathing, focusing on regional physiological dead space and effective alveolar ventilation, alongside CT for lobar analysis. Results: Our imaging analysis linked regional lung function to clinical outcomes, aiming to improve patient selection and treatment strategies for EBV therapy. Impact: This study offers new insights into the physiological mechanisms underlying EBV treatment variability, helping to tailor therapy to individual patients and enhance long-term outcomes by integrating advanced imaging techniques to correlate lung function with clinical benefits.