Endobronchial Valves

Endobronchial valves (EBV) are a minimally invasive approach to treating patients with severe or end-chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD can cause both chronic bronchitis and emphysema. EBV therapy can benefit patients who have emphysema and are already taking maximum medical therapy. Although it cannot cure COPD, EBV can improve patient’s quality of life by allowing them to breathe easier.

During this procedure, a surgeon will use a long flexible camera called a bronchoscope to place one-way valves into the airway. These valves target areas of hyperinflated lungs caused by emphysema. The valves will allow air to escape the hyperinflated portions of lung, causing them to shrink and collapse over time. This allows healthier lung tissue, which may have been compressed by the hyperinflated lung, to have room to expand. It also allows more room for the diaphragm to move, improving patients’ ability to breathe. Immediately after the procedure, patient’s should expect to stay in the hospital for at least 3 days for observation. To find out if you or your loved one is a potential candidate for EBV placement, please call our office at 217-545-8000.

New patients will be screened by: 

Joni Colle RN, BSN, RRT, AE-C, CCRP
Cardiothoracic Surgery/ LVRS Program | Pulmonary/ Cystic Fibrosis Clinic