Analysis of pulmonary fissures using CT is useful before endoscopic volume reduction because results are well correlated to endoscopic measurements of collateral ventilation. Further study with clinical outcomes is mandatory to determine if and when one test or the other or both should be used in patient selection.

Diet, as a modifiable risk factor, appears more as an option to prevent and modify the course of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Reduction of mechanical disadvantage, physical training and anabolic agents should be used conjointly with oral nutrition supplements to overcome undernutrition and might change the prognosis of the disease in some cases. Major research challenges address the role of systemic inflammation and the best interventions for controlling it besides smoking cessation.