Endobronchial Valve Treatment

Endobronchial valve (EBV) treatment is an option for people with severe emphysema. Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). EBV treatment involves placing valves into damaged parts of the lung. These valves block inhaled air from entering those damaged parts.^1-3

EBVs are safe and effective at improving lung function for people with emphysema. They can improve both breathing and quality of life. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of EBV treatment.^1,3

How does endobronchial valve treatment work?

EBV treatment is used to treat adults with advanced emphysema or severe COPD. Emphysema is a type of COPD where air sacs in the lungs become damaged. Air may become trapped in the damaged air sacs. The damaged air sacs then grow and put pressure on healthy parts of the lung. This leads to shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.^1-4

EBV treatment works by placing valves in the lungs that block air from entering the damaged air sacs. When you inhale, the valves close to prevent air from entering. When you exhale, the valves open to let out trapped air. Research has shown that EBV treatment:^1,4-6

• Improves breathing and lung function
• Increases ability to exercise
• Improves quality of life
• Increases life expectancy and overall health

During the EBV procedure, a doctor gives you medicine to make you fall asleep. The surgeon then inserts a bronchoscope (a tube with a camera) through your nose or mouth into your lungs. This helps them place several valves in damaged parts of the lung.^3,7,8

Examples of endobronchial valve treatments

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved 2 types of EBV treatments for people with COPD:^1,5-8

• Zephyr® Valve
• Spiration® Valve

Both valves redirect air from damaged areas to healthier areas of the lungs. But they differ in shape and material. Your doctor will decide which type of valve is right for you.^7-9

What are the possible side effects?

EBV treatment is considered safer than other surgery options. The treatment does not involve any cuts or incisions. This makes it less invasive than lung volume reduction or lung transplant surgery, and it reduces the chance of infections and pain. EBVs can be removed, if necessary.⁴

However, side effects of EBV treatment are possible. Common side effects include:^1,3,7,8

• Air leak (pneumothorax)
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath
• Worsening COPD

These are not all the possible side effects of EBV treatment. Talk to your doctor about what to expect during and after EBV treatment. Call your doctor if any changes concern you after the procedure.

Other things to know

EBV treatment is meant only for people with severe symptoms that continue despite lifestyle changes, medication, and oxygen therapy. Doctors may use symptom assessments and lung function tests to determine whether EBV treatment is a good option for you.^3,4

Recovery after EBV treatment is usually faster than after other treatment options. You may need to take antibiotics or steroids after the procedure.^3,7,8

Some people need to have their valves adjusted later. During an adjustment procedure, your surgeon will remove and replace 1 or more valves in your lungs. They also may place new valves.⁷

Before beginning treatment for COPD, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you take. This includes over-the-counter drugs. Be sure to talk to them about:^1,7,8

• Any active lung infections
• Allergies
• Smoking history
• History of heart disease
• Any other major lung procedures