Have you had bronchoscopic lung volume reduction?

Posted by sandymkleinfehn @sandymkleinfehn, Nov 2, 2024

I have severe COPD for about 8 years. I use O2 at night. I still work my job of over 10 hours a day. I am running out of air so much of the day. My pulmonologist is having me do blood gas this week and check if I would be eligible for bronchoscopic lung volume reduction. What was your experience with this? Was it successful? How much down time did you have? Was it worth it to do it|? If it was worth it, how long ago did you do it and how is it now? Do you still use O2 at all? Any info is much appreciated!

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sandymkleinfehn | @sandymkleinfehn | Dec 2, 2024

In reply to @sandymkleinfehn "It was about the same as other blood draws. Piece of cake!" + (show)

Did it. You are right, a piece of cake!

impact4005 | @impact4005 | Dec 2, 2024

In reply to @sandymkleinfehn "It was about the same as other blood draws. Piece of cake!" + (show)

I think they take it from an artery this is why it hurts more 😕

jules2052 | @jules2052 | Dec 11 12:57pm

Does anyone know the requirements for acceptance for the lung volume reduction and for the Zephyr valves? I’m 63 years young, former smoker with “marked” emphysema. I use albuterol rescue inhaler as needed, Brexit 2 x daily, nebulizer 4 x daily and oxygen during sleep. Within the past 2 to 3 months my energy level has plummeted and my anxiety and exacerbations have gone through the roof. I feel like I am swimming up a creek without a paddle. Now I have developed some depression and I can’t remember the last time I was depressed. Must have been when my Dad died 3 years ago. Anyway, I would appreciate anyone’s help or if they could steer me in the right direction. Thank you in advance for the responses! HAGD

pamelaaci | @pamelaaci | Dec 12 9:39am

In reply to @jules2052 "Does anyone know the requirements for acceptance for the lung volume reduction and for the Zephyr..." + (show)

@jules2052 I had the Zephyr valves installed back in 2020. I originally had tried for Lung volume reduction surgery (prior to Zephyr's being available) but did not qualify due to having homogenous emphysema. At the time they would only operate on those with heterogenous emphysema where the emphysema and scattered differently throughout the lungs (vs homogenous which is basically spread same throughout the lungs). You may want to check Pulmonx' website (https://pulmonx.com/zephyr-centers/) for the doctors in your area to start. Hope this helps!

suzyq61 | @suzyq61 | Dec 12 11:25am

In reply to @impact4005 "Hello maybe you can start on the Dupiexnt to help you with your type 2 inflammation...." + (show)

@impact4005 I’m on breztri and ohtuvayre and having issues and finally my doctor is going to see if I’m capable to have the injection, not the one you mentioned it’s another and it will only be once a month just waiting on blood work and insurance approval, i keep saying I’m out of breath walking around my house and I was only diagnosed year and half ago, I’m exercising and eating healthy

kdalda75 | @kndaustin71 | Dec 12 1:06pm

In a heartbeat I would have the reduction. I did have zephyr valves inserted under bronchoscopy....piece of cake and reaped the benefits. I was not a candidate for reduction, not sure why. However. I am marching forward with a new interventional pulmonologist to weigh all my options. In the mean time am maintained on Albuterol, Breztri and hyper-sal nebulization if needed. And of course, all the pulmonary hygiene ie chest percussion, postural drainage etc. I will not stop from seeking additional support.

impact4005 | @impact4005 | Dec 12 2:54pm

In reply to @suzyq61 "@impact4005 I’m on breztri and ohtuvayre and having issues and finally my doctor is going to..." + (show)

@suzyq61 That is great I do hope the injection helps you. I'm doing fairly well on my dupxeint but when the weather changes I do have flare ups and have to start my predisone and antibiotics for a week. I have gained a little weight and I'm breathing all hard from that. I must cut back on my eating. Keep us posted on your progress.