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Emphysema Study Examines Minimally Invasive Approach
The 4 million Americans who suffer from emphysema never take breathing for granted. They struggle with chronic shortness of breath and must severely limit physical activities. Treatment options are medical management and major surgery such as lung volume reduction or lung transplantation.
Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin are participating in a national clinical trial testing a less invasive approach to managing emphysema—the IBV Valve System. One of up to 50 centers involved in the research, Froedtert & The Medical College are enrolling men and women ages 40 to 74 who have been diagnosed with predominantly upper lobe severe emphysema and shortness of breath. Among other requirements, they will participate in pulmonary function and exercise tests during a six-month period.
“We’re determining if the valves are effective and if they offer patients relief,” said Mario Gasparri, MD, Medical College of Wisconsin thoracic surgeon and principal investigator of the study.
The IBV Valve is placed in the lung as part of a bronchoscopy. Resembling a tiny umbrella, it is designed to redirect airflow to the lower, healthier section of the lung that inflates and deflates more normally. “We may accomplish the same results as surgery with minimal complications,” Dr. Gasparri said.
Emphysema patients who may not qualify for the valve trial may be eligible for other treatments, Dr. Gasparri noted. To learn more about available treatments for emphysema, call 414-805-3666 or 800-272-3666.
Source: Froedtert Today Date: September 2009 |
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