Lung valves could starve Drug-Resistant TB cavities

This study tests whether placing one-way valves in the lungs can shrink cavities caused by drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) or nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections. The valves block airflow into the cavity, creating a low-oxygen environment that may slow or stop bacterial growth. Thirty adults with cavities that cannot be surgically removed will be randomly assigned to receive either standard medical therapy alone or standard therapy plus the valve. The goal is to see if the valve helps reduce cavity size and clear bacteria from sputum after 9 months.