Lung Bullae and Bullectomy
A bulla is a large air-filled space that develops in the lung. It may be associated with damage to lung tissue. The term bleb is also used for small air pockets. Having a bulla does not in itself mean cancer.
Draft awaiting medical review · General information; not a substitute for an individual consultation and assessment.
Content updated: 22 October 2026 · Last physician review: not yet completed.
What is a lung bulla?
A bulla is a large air-filled space that develops in the lung. It may be associated with damage to lung tissue. The term bleb is also used for small air pockets. Having a bulla does not in itself mean cancer.
What problems can it cause?
Some bullae cause no symptoms. Large bullae may compress the surrounding functioning lung and contribute to breathlessness. If they rupture, air can enter the space between the pleural layers and cause a pneumothorax. Sudden chest pain and severe breathlessness require emergency assessment.
What matters in the assessment?
CT scans assess the size and location of the bulla and the condition of the surrounding lung. Breathing capacity and coexisting emphysema are evaluated. How much of the symptoms comes from the bulla rather than widespread lung disease influences treatment decisions.
Bullectomy and other options
Bullectomy is the surgical removal of a bulla. It may be considered for large bullae compressing healthy lung or for certain complications. VATS may be suitable in selected cases. Not every bulla requires surgery; stopping smoking and treating associated lung disease are also important.
Risks and follow-up
Surgical risks include prolonged air leakage, bleeding, infection and respiratory failure. The duration of chest drainage and the hospital stay varies between individuals. The degree of improvement in breathing capacity cannot be predicted with certainty. Flying and diving should be discussed separately after a pneumothorax.
Frequently asked questions
Does removing a bulla create new lung tissue?
No. The aim is to relieve compression or treat a complication in a suitable patient.
Does every bulla rupture?
No. Risk is assessed in relation to the characteristics of the bulla and the condition of the person’s lungs.
Further reading
Patient information sources · Sources checked: 22 October 2026. Checking sources does not mean the text has been medically approved by the physician.