Upcoming operation question. Have you had this procedure?

[Noiseache]

Hi, my name is Greg, I'm 52, been diagnosed with emphysema for 10 years now. I'm due to have a "lower lobe endobronchial valve implantation", shortly.

I'd be interested to hear from people that have had this procedure done and what their experience, post operation is.

Apparently, 75% of patients receive some form of benefit, but I am obviously concerned what effects the other 25% experience.

Thanks in advance.

Regards

Greg

[megshafer]

I have not personally. But, I hear it can be a complete life transformation. Great breathing. Less oxygen if any, ever. It's quick. And, if you have a problem they can remove them.

I wish you well.

Take good care,

Meg

[Hacienda]

Hi , Good Morning, A few of us on here have had The valves (Bling) . Some it has worked for them ,( had 4) me included. lasted for about 9 months wonderful, Then I had a Lung Wash, which made Breathing easier, I was hoping to have further Valves, But it wasn't to be, or an LVRS. I would do it all again if I was able to. Never Refuse any Help that is offered, We all must try to improve our Lung Capacity, I am on Oxygen, not as much as Before, I exercise with my Breathe Easy Group,( Rehab when my Turn comes). Eat a sensible Diet, and Plan Each day. Just getting over a little Chest Infection, But I managed that very Well. Always be Positive. Go for it Hun. Hugs. Carolina. XXX

[skischool]

I had 5 inserted in my upper left lobe,after 3 months no difference was observed so i had another implanted,unfortunately they have not achieved what they are designed for which is to deprive your damaged areas of tissue of access to air but also release your waste gases and ,this should create an effect called atelectasis(a withering away of the damaged alveoli)and consequently reduce the hyperinflation in your lungs.

The procedure is simple and the recovery time is almost instantaneous but you will need to stay in hospital a minimum of 3 days for observation to ensure you don't suffer one of the possible complications which is having a bleed or suffering a pneumothorax(collapsed lung)ironically those people who do have a pneumothorax often go on to achieve the greatest success in reduced lung volume and increased fev1 .

I personally had no complications and or side effects and was mobile and doing stuff as normal within a day or so and have had no complications to date 1 year later

Your consultant should have already explained the potential benefits and the percentage of people that gain them,if he/she hasn't you must ask them to do so.anyway good luck,it is a simple procedure normally done under mild sedation .

Best wishes Ski's aged 66 and Scruff's,a cat of indeterminate age