BLVR Procedure
Treatment for COPD/Emphysema
Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction (BLVR)
What is Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction (BLVR)?
BLVR is a minimally invasive procedure for patients with severe emphysema who consistently feel shortness of breath despite using COPD medications and/or oxygen. It uses an FDA-approved valve which has been shown to help patients breathe easier, be more active and energetic, experience less shortness of breath and enjoy a significantly improved quality of life.1
How Does the Procedure Work?
The one-time procedure is done during a bronchoscopy that requires no cutting or incisions. During the procedure, about four small valves are placed in the airways to block off the diseased parts of the lungs. The valves reduce hyperinflation, preventing air from being trapped in the diseased area of the lung and allowing healthier parts of the lung to take in more air. This results in patients being able to breathe easier. Patients have reported immediate relief.
What Can Patients Expect?
- Patients are given medication to make them sleepy.
- A small tube with a camera, called a bronchoscope, is inserted into the lungs through the nose or mouth.
- An average of four FDA-approved valves are inserted in the airways.
- Patients stay in the hospital for approximately 3 nights for observation.
- After the procedure, patients continue to use doctor-prescribed medications for their condition.
Call (225) 765-5864 to schedule a consultation to learn if you are a candidate for BLVR.
Complications of the Zephyr Endobronchial Valve treatment can include, but are not limited to, pneumothorax, worsening of COPD symptoms, hemoptysis, pneumonia, dyspnea and, in rare cases, death.
1 Criner G et al AM J Resp Crit Care Med 2018, Published on 22-May-2018 as 10.1164/rccm.201803-0590OC