Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a widespread condition in the United States, impacting 16 million adults as per the Centers for Disease Control. This disease, particularly emphysema, is a leading cause of death. Mercy Health in Youngstown, Ohio, is now offering the region’s first new treatment for patients with emphysema.
The Zephyr Endobronchial Valves are being utilized by Mercy Health to aid Valley residents in their battle against COPD. This innovative treatment involves a minimally invasive procedure to place valves into the damaged regions of the lung. The importance of this treatment lies in its non-surgical nature and its potential to improve the quality of life for COPD patients without the risks associated with major surgeries like lung transplants.
Dr. Niraj Niraula, a pulmonologist at Mercy Health, believes that this procedure has the potential to be life-changing for patients who continue to experience symptoms despite taking medications as directed. Many patients with COPD experience trapped air in damaged areas of their lungs, leading to extreme shortness of breath. This can result in difficulty performing daily activities like walking, eating or bathing.
Before the introduction of the Zephyr Endobronchial Valves, patients had limited options available to them were highly invasive treatments like lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplantation. However, this minimally invasive procedure offers a shorter recovery time and lowers the risk of infection. The procedure typically takes under an hour and does not involve any cutting or incisions.
For more information about Mercy Health’s pulmonology services and team, visit their website at