An obturator for a bronchial tube or tubule of a human or animal lung
comprises a blocking element (92) and a securing element (90). The
blocking element serves to seal the tube or tubule against the passage of
fluid past the obturator when the obturator is disposed in a bronchial
tube or tubule. The securing element serves to retain the blocking
element in position. The blocking element comprises a substantially
cylindrical plug of biocompatible, resiliently deformable closed-cell
foamed plastics material, such as PVC. The securing element comprises a
stent having barbs (98) to engage and retain the blocking element. The
stent also has anchors (100) to retain the stent in a bronchial tube or
tubule. A method of treatment of emphysema or other lung conditions or
diseases in human or animal patients comprises placing an obturator in a
bronchial tube or tubule of the patient so as to seal the tube or tubule
against the passage of fluid past the obturator.