A 58-year-old man with severe COPD (FEV₁ 32% predicted, TLC 125% predicted, RV 165% predicted) and heterogeneous upper-lobe predominant emphysema on HRCT presents for evaluation of advanced lung disease. He has completed pulmonary rehabilitation and demonstrates low post-rehabilitation exercise capacity. His blood gases are normal (PaO₂ 65 mmHg, PaCO₂ 42 mmHg), and he is abstinent from smoking for 8 months. The structure marked **C** in the diagram represents the intervention most likely to provide survival benefit in this patient. Which of the following is the PRIMARY MECHANISM by which this intervention improves respiratory function in upper-lobe predominant emphysema?
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