The one-time procedure is done during a bronchoscopy that requires no cutting or incisions.

• The doctor will give you medicine to make you sleepy.
• A small tube with a camera, called a bronchoscope, will be inserted into your lungs through your nose or mouth.
• During the procedure on average the doctor will place 4 Zephyr Valves in the airways.
• You will stay in the hospital for approximately 3 nights for observation.
• After the procedure, you will continue to use the medicines that your doctor has prescribed for your condition.

The procedure is usually complete in about an hour.

Following Zephyr Valve treatment, patients are required to stay in the hospital for 3 nights to allow for careful observation.  In most cases, patients are able to go home after 3 nights if there are no complications. Some patients may end up staying longer than 3 nights if they develop a pneumothorax (tear in the lung), a known side effect of this treatment or another complication.  Most patients are able resume normal activities within a couple of weeks.

Approximately 25,000 people globally have received this treatment.

Yes, you will likely continue to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor for your condition.

Generally, those who should be evaluated for Zephyr Valve Treatment are patients who:

• Have a confirmed diagnosis of COPD or emphysema
• Have to stop to catch their breath often, even with taking their medication as directed
• Have reduced lung function (FEV1≤50% predicted)

These are general criteria but only a Zephyr Valve trained physician can determine if you are a candidate.

The procedure is for adult patients (18 years and older). A Zephyr Valve trained physician will determine if you are a candidate but there is no strict upper age limit.

A simple set of tests are required to determine if you might be a good candidate for the treatment. These include pulmonary function testing (PFTs), a CT scan, ABG (a blood test), and the 6-minute walk test. Additional tests may include an echocardiogram and a perfusion scan.

Yes, you will need to quit smoking at least 4 months prior to receiving the Zephyr Valve Treatment and must refrain from smoking after the procedure.

Patients cannot have this treatment if they do not meet certain criteria.  You will need to go through a number of tests to see if you qualify.  Some of the most common reasons why patients do not qualify are:

• Unable to have a bronchoscopic procedure
• Have an active lung infection
• Have an allergy to Nitinol, nickel, titanium, or silicone
• Have not stopped smoking
• Have an air pocket (bullae) that is greater than 1/3 of the size of the lung
• Have passages or channels in their lungs that bypass the normal airways (collateral ventilation)

Most patients who qualify for the Zephyr Valve procedure are able to secure insurance coverage for their treatment.