What Are Your Thoughts on Zephyr® Valves?

When Zephyr® Valves emerged as a promising innovation, I was quick to document their potential in an article. Over time, I've heard numerous success stories. Most were through discussions with colleagues at a prominent hospital and my own workplace.

But it was only recently that I had the opportunity to speak directly with a COPD patient who had had the procedure. In this piece, I share the insightful conversation I had with her.

What are Zephyr Valves?

I don't know her name, but she was sitting on a rollator walker, observing her grandson's pole vaulting. I sat beside her, watching my daughter engage in the same activity.

By the way, my daughter broke her personal record that day, clearing 6 feet 6 inches. And then – astonishingly – she surpassed it by jumping 7 feet just 15 minutes later. Needless to say, it was an exhilarating event for her.

Between watching our children compete, there are often long stretches of time. We pass these moments by cheering for all the participants, even those from opposing teams.

As I sat on the grass, the woman on the rollator engaged in conversation with a friend. She began discussing her battle with COPD and her recent procedure involving the insertion of one-way valves into her right lower lung.

She explained how COPD traps harmful air within the lungs, making breathing difficult, and how the valves help release this trapped air. "And let me tell you," she remarked, "the difference was noticeable almost immediately."

Eventually another woman – presumably her daughter – joined us for a while, and the conversation shifted to other topics. Later on, it was just the 2 of us again. I couldn't resist asking, "So, you've had the Zephyr Valve procedure?" She smiled warmly and eagerly shared her firsthand experience with me.

A life-changing decision

What was her testimony? "Yes!" she responded eagerly and again with a smile. "I had them put in about a year ago. And it was only a 30-minute procedure. I noticed the results the next day. It was amazing."

She mentioned that in the entire state of Michigan, only 3 doctors perform this procedure. Her pulmonologist believed she might benefit from it, so he referred her to another hospital. She underwent several tests to ensure she met the criteria for the procedure. Once she was deemed eligible, she eagerly sought to proceed with it.

She told me how, before the procedure, she relied on oxygen around the clock. "Simply walking from the kitchen table to the refrigerator would leave me breathless – even short distances were a struggle," she shared.

Since undergoing the procedure, her reliance on oxygen has significantly decreased. "Now, I only need oxygen at night and occasionally while walking. I no longer require it at rest. I can effortlessly make it from the table to the refrigerator. It's such a relief," she expressed gratefully.

Her endorsement of Zephyr Valves for anyone dealing with COPD was absolute.

"It was the best decision I ever made," she affirmed. Following the procedure, she engaged in pulmonary rehabilitation to further improve her respiratory health. These days, she goes to a senior center 3 times a week to walk on the treadmill.

She also told me she intends to join a program aimed at incorporating weightlifting into her routine, all in pursuit of rebuilding her strength. Her ultimate goal? "I hope to return to playing pickleball by later this summer." A proud smile graced her face as she shared her aspirations.

Exploring treatment options

I had never met this woman before, but our brief encounter during track season gave me insight into the potential benefits of the procedure for COPD, especially in cases of emphysema. Her firsthand account emphasized the significant impact Zephyr Valves can have on quality of life. She would highly recommend getting Zephyr Valves to anyone with COPD.

As for me, this is an area where I defer to the expertise of medical professionals. If you're considering this procedure, it's essential to consult with your doctor to determine if it's the right option for you.

Have you discussed this procedure with your doctor? Are you considering it? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.