Objective: To investigate the effect of extirpation of bronchi on histology and physiological function.
Methods: 21 dogs were divided in to two groups: control (3) and experimental (18). After bronchi extirpation one week, two weeks, one month, three months, six months, and twelve months, we used specimens to test the pulmonary surfactant (PS) and to observe the morphological changes.
Results: After the operation, the residual lung nearby the operative area had traumatic changes. Around the aforementioned area, the structure of lung was normal. Specially after six months, the lung returned to good status. We found that two weeks after operation, the contents of PS increased remarkably (P < 0.05). After one month the parameter returned to normal (P > 0.05).
Conclusions: The residual lung after bronchi extirpation had ventilation and air-exchange functions. The lung function was preserved directly.