How tiny valves can improve your respiratory health

For nearly 18 million Americans, living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a difficult reality. The progressive disease limits air flow to the lungs and causes breathing problems. Emphysema, a type of COPD, destroys the air sacs that expand and contract when breathing.

As emphysema destroys tissue, the lung enlarges, preventing proper inhalation and exhalation, trapping air in the lungs. Consequently, the lungs expand and become overinflated, making it even more difficult to breathe.

“With emphysema changes, there is no room for a patient to take a deep breath,” explains Dr. Abdul Alraiyes, an interventional pulmonologist at Advocate Health Care. “Treatment of COPD and emphysema, which are both incurable, has typically included measures such as lifestyle changes, rescue inhalers and oxygen therapy.”

Now, a new minimally invasive lung procedure is improving lung function and enhancing breathing efficiency. Known as a bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR), the technique involves inserting tiny valves into the lung. The valves open upon exhalation, helping trapped air exit the body.

A bronchoscope is used to place the valves, which deflate the damaged part of the lung and gradually restore a more normal lung volume. “Over time, the goal is to deflate the bad part of the lung,” says Dr. Alraiyes. “This allows patients to have greater lung reserve volume and take deep breaths.”

Post procedure, individuals experience relief from their lung disease symptoms and a serious improvement in lung function.

“This advanced procedure plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for patients suffering from severe respiratory limitations,” says Dr. Alraiyes.

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