For certain severe COPD patients who are not responding to bronchodilators and rehabilitation, a new minimally invasive procedure is available that can yield a 15-20% improvement in lung function. As Surya Bhatt, MD, explains, the Zephyr endobronchial valve addresses emphysema via lung volume reduction; the one-way valve is placed through a bronchoscope, without even a stitch. The procedure, performed under conscious sedation or general anesthesia, can dramatically improve patients’ quality of life if they meet certain criteria. Learn more from Dr. Bhatt about the importance of intact fissures, the ideal differences in respective lung lobe performance, and the critical tests he uses to determine if this procedure is right for your patient.
