Living Well With COPD | Page 35

Lung Volume Reduction Lung volume reduction surgery removes diseased portions of one or both lungs. When the diseased portions of the lung are removed, the excess volume of the lungs inside the rib cage is reduced. This makes it easier to breathe. To be a candidate, you must: • Have a type of COPD called emphysema • Be strong enough to undergo the procedure • • Follow proper medical therapy • • Be in good general health Participate in a pulmonary rehabilitation program Choosing to undergo lung volume reduction procedures or lung transplantation is a big decisions and is not the right course for everyone with COPD. Be sure to discuss these options thoroughly, both with your regular health-care provider and clinicians who are experts at these procedures. Bronchoscopic Volume Reduction In certain medical centers lung volume reduction can be preformed using valves placed with a bronchoscope. Consult with your doctor for more information on this procedure option. Not smoke 33