If you have to stop to catch your breath often, even when taking your medication as prescribed, you might be a good candidate for the Zephyr® Valve treatment. This minimally invasive procedure may help you breathe easier and enjoy a better quality of life.
Those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema may benefit from this procedure.
COPD makes it hard to breathe. Air gets trapped in diseased portions of your airways, inflating your lungs and pushes down on your diaphragm. Zephyr Valves helps trapped air escape, returning the affected parts of the lung to normal size. This helps you take fuller, deeper breaths.
What Is the Zephyr Valve?
The Zephyr Valve is a small, implantable device that may be used as an alternative to traditional lung volume reduction surgery with lower risks associated. Once implanted, the trapped air from your lungs will escape but no new air will enter so you can breathe easier.
What Happens During the Zephyr Procedure?
First, your provider will give you anesthesia; you’ll be asleep during the procedure and won’t feel any pain or discomfort.
Your doctor will then guide a thin, flexible tube through your nose or mouth. A camera attached to the end of the tube allows your doctor to see inside your airways and accurately place the Zephyr devices. No cutting or incisions are required.
After the procedure, you will recover in the hospital for at least three nights. Depending on your provider’s recommendations, you may continue taking your medication as prescribed.
Benefits of Zephyr Valve Procedure
The Zephyr valve has been shown to help patients with COPD breathe easier and enjoy a better quality of life.