Implantation of Endobronchial Valves Versus Intrabronchial Valves in Patients With Severe Heterogeneous Emphysema

In severe cases of COPD even optimum treatment involving bronchodilatation with drugs, physical training and possibly oxygen therapy is unable to influence exercise capacity and the perception of dyspnoea to a sufficient extent. Given the assumption that the elastic recoil of the small airways can be improved by a reduction in lung volume and pulmonary function overall by more ergonomic breathing mechanics and diaphragm function, various endoscopic procedures for lung volume reduction are available. The most advanced technique is the implantation of valves. The one-way mechanism of these valves allows air to be expelled during exspiration without any influx of air during inspiration.

In severe cases of COPD even optimum treatment involving bronchodilatation with drugs, physical training and possibly oxygen therapy is unable to influence exercise capacity and the perception of dyspnoea to a sufficient extent. Given the assumption that the elastic recoil of the small airways can be improved by a reduction in lung volume and pulmonary function overall by more ergonomic breathing mechanics and diaphragm function, various endoscopic procedures for lung volume reduction are available. The most advanced technique is the implantation of valves. The one-way mechanism of these valves allows air to be expelled during exspiration without any influx of air during inspiration.