Making Breathing Easier for Patients Living with COPD
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a common preventable and treatable disease. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness and cough. COPD is caused by exposure to certain particles and gases such as cigarette smoke.
In June 2018, the valves were the first device approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat severe COPD. The valves range in size from 4.0 millimeters to 8.5 millimeters.
Henry Ford Hospital is the first hospital in metro Detroit to offer the endobronchial valve procedure as a new treatment option that makes breathing easier for patients living with the lung disease COPD.
FAQs about The Endobronchial Valve Procedure
What are the benefits?
You will be able to breathe easier and you’ll feel more active and energetic. It will also improve your lung function.
Who is a candidate?
Candidates are those with severe COPD who consistently feel shortness of breath, despite the use of medication and/or oxygen. Your pulmonologist will discuss with you if the procedure is the best option.
What to expect the day of the procedure?
During the procedure, tiny one-way bronchial valves are implanted in the lungs to block off the diseased parts of the lungs and allow the healthier parts to expand and function more efficiently. This makes it easier for you to breathe and for your lungs to function better.
Typically, the procedure last about one hour and is performed under general anesthesia. You can expect to be hospitalized for three to five days.