Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction with airway valves for advanced emphysema
Summary
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued full guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction with airway valves for advanced emphysema.
Description
Emphysema is a disease of the lungs in which the walls of the air sacs become weak and disintegrate, leaving behind abnormally large air spaces that stay filled with air even when the person breathes out. The lungs also become less able to get enough oxygen into the blood, so the person can feel tired and breathless.
The aim of lung volume reduction surgery is to limit airflow to the part of the lung that's working least well, so that the effort of breathing can be concentrated on the part of the lung that's working better. The procedure is undertaken via a small flexible camera inserted down the wind pipe and placing small, one-way valves in the airways. A typical procedure involves placing 3-4 valves.
NICE Pathways
This guidance has been incorporated into the following NICE Pathways, along with other related guidance and products.
Visit the NICE Pathway: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
OPCS4.6 Code(s):
Details
Surgical procedures
- Society of Cardiothoracic Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland.
- British Thoracic Society
Contact details:
(for procedure specific enquiries or comments)
ip@nice.org.uk
Interventional Procedures Programme
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
MidCity Place
71 High Holborn
London
WC1V 6NA
Links:
This page was last updated: 21 February 2011
