Zephyr Endobronchial Valves for Emphysema

@kndaustin71 what are the requirements in order to be accepted?

The requirements are mostly clinically based having to do with the results of PFT's, CT scan, Right heart cath, and a six minute walk study. But if you are interested I would certainly bring it up with an Interventional Pulmonologist and they could assist in evaluation/assessment/treatment options.

@kndaustin71 You may be able to find a more in-depth criteria declaration if you Google Zephyr Valves or Spiration Valve - both do the same thing just a different company

@kndaustin71 ty!

@kndaustin71 ty I have been googling everything I can think of. I have a copy of my PFT scores and I failed with flying colors. My Pulmonologist, when she saw the results of the tests, said “oh my God”! and didn’t go into specific detail or explanation. (I should have asked but I was like a deer in headlights). The report is extremely detailed with %s and numbers I have no idea what they mean. So I am going to google these and see if I can understand them. Then I will call for an appointment with her about the Zephyr Valves and listen to her input. I have centrilobular emphysema which is a candidate for Zephyr valves/low volume lung reduction. But I’m sure there are so many other factors involved. Thanks for your responses I truly appreciate

Please make sure that if you speak with her that is is able to give you referrals to the best and most experienced practitioners. I had to travel to Duke University for my valves....lucked out and had a physician friend involved in their lung transplant team and he was able to get me an appointment. I don't have alot of respect for the Medical community in which I live...so even know in seeking information about RheoPlasty procedure I have explored the larger institutions ie UAB, Temple, Duke, Vanderbilt. Will be more than happy to share my experiences and research findings. It's a tough road!

@kndaustin71 yes please share everything. I emailed my pulmonologist about the valves and she replied that I had “very severe emphysema and the Zephyr Valves work better for focal areas of emphysema”. (I have centrilobular emphysema). She also replied “I would need multiple valves placed over multiple settings to make any impact with risks including infection and lung collapse “. She recommended Advent Health, here in Fl, but not a specific physician. I researched the physicians with Advent and found Dr Do, in Brandon, Fl., who was an Intern at the time they were implementing the valves, who has done the insertions extensively. I called his office and made an appointment March 19th. My Pulmonologist faxed all of my history to Dr Do’s office yesterday. The NP said if they need anything last minute, before my appointment, they can do at their facility.
Oh, and besides Advent, she recommended University of Florida in Gainesville, University of South Florida in Tampa, Cleveland Clinic in Weston and University of Miami. Advent was her first recommendation and suggested I get the evaluation done there.
So, my interpretation of her email, made me feel like I was already 6 feet underground. But that was probably because I didn’t listen to her and stop smoking until Jan 1 of this year. Yes I know…stupid for not quitting then, but it is what it is.
Anyway, yes please share any and all information you have time for. I would appreciate it! Ty

@jules2052 also making appointment with Dr Bussy at Mayo Jacksonville

@jules2052 I just got a call from Mayo and will be having a telehealth call with Dr. Bussy on the 21st of this month. I am excited but also scared to death. I will let you know what he has to say. Sending positive vibes to myself!!!

@kndaustin71 I am one that went through all the testing and was told afterwards that my lungs were in such bad condition that the valve would not help me. Very disappointed because when I first went to the pulmonary surgeon he was very sure I was a prime candidate from looking at my CT scans and all the other tests. Just trying to survive now, still trying different outlets, so far nothing has caused improvement in my breathing.