Lung Volume Reduction

Endobronchial Valves for Severe Emphysema

Illustration of the lungs

In severe emphysema, damaged parts of the lung trap air and become over-inflated, pressing on healthier lung tissue and the diaphragm. Endobronchial valve treatment, a form of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction, places small one-way valves in the airways of the most damaged lobe. Air can leave that lobe but not re-enter, so it shrinks, giving the healthier lung more room to work.

For the right patients, valves can improve breathing, exercise ability and quality of life, without surgery or incisions.

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Candidates & Procedure

Who may be a candidate

  • People with severe emphysema and hyperinflation who are still short of breath despite optimal medications
  • Non-smokers (or those who have quit)
  • Patients who can take part in pulmonary rehabilitation

Evaluation and procedure

  • Pulmonary function tests, a 6-minute walk test and a specialized CT analysis to choose the target lobe
  • Valves are placed during a bronchoscopy under anesthesia
  • A short hospital stay afterward for monitoring, because a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) is the most important risk

See also: COPD & Emphysema

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