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Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction (BLVR)

Overview

Yale New Haven Hospital is the first in Connecticut to offer patients Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction (BLVR), a minimally invasive procedure that treats severe emphysema, a type of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

BLVR is a medical procedure that aims to reduce lung volume in patients with severe emphysema to improve breathing. One way is by surgically placing endobronchial valves inside the lungs to allow the parts of the lung that have been most damaged by smoking to collapse and allow the healthier lung to fill up more of the chest. This results in improved breathing capacity, which enables patients with severe emphysema to increase the amount of activity that they can do and may even lead to a longer life expectancy.

More Information

What’s the criteria for being considered for BLVR evaluation?

  • Former smoker
  • Diagnosed with severe emphysema
  • Medical treatment has been optimized
  • No anatomical restrictions
  • Referral from a primary care provider or pulmonologist . Self-referrals are also welcomed.
     

What occurs during BLVR physical evaluation?

As part of the evaluation process, a physical evaluation is performed during your clinical visit. Our evaluation typically includes:

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: Specialized imaging test that helps detect diseases and injuries. It uses a series of X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of your bones and soft tissues. A CT scan will produce detailed 3D images of the lungs to locate diseased areas. A CT scan is painless and noninvasive.

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT): Noninvasive tests to measure airflow in and out of the lungs, how well the lungs move oxygen into the bloodstream, lung size and capacity. This information can help your healthcare provider diagnose and decide the best treatment for certain lung disorders.

Referrals and Appointments

All potential candidates must be evaluated by our Interventional Pulmonary team. Our team accepts referrals from primary care physicians and pulmonologists and self-referrals.

Yale School of Medicine

Yale New Haven Health is proud to be affiliated with the prestigious Yale University and its highly ranked Yale School of Medicine.