We provide care in three easily-accessible locations across the Rio Grande Valley.
1604 East 8th St., Suite A
Weslaco, TX
Phone: (956) 447-5557
5300 North McColl Rd., Suite 100
McAllen, TX
Phone: (956) 630-1000
1022 E. Griffin Pkwy.
Mission, TX 78572
Phone: (956) 833-6000
Endobronchial valves are one-way, reversible tubes that can be placed within a patient’s lungs in order to alleviate trapped air that arises from conditions such as COPD and emphysema. Reserved primarily for patients with advanced forms of these lung disorders, this treatment approach requires a short, 60-minute procedure and can deliver results within a few weeks. The goal is to assist patients in returning to more of their daily activities while experiencing less breathing difficulty due to their condition.
If you have been told you need endobronchial valves, you may have questions about this treatment approach. Feel free to check out these FAQs and reach out to our professionals for assistance with any remaining questions you may have. We are here to help!
EBVs are small, one-way valves that are placed in the airways to block airflow to specific areas of the lungs. This causes the surrounding healthy tissue to expand, thereby improving lung function and reducing symptoms in people with certain lung conditions.
EBVs are used to treat conditions such as emphysema, where there is damage to the lung tissue and the patient experiences difficulty breathing.
EBVs are inserted through a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible tube that is inserted through the nose or mouth and down into the lungs. The EBVs are then placed into the airways using special tools.
The risks associated with EBVs include bleeding, infection, and pneumothorax (a collapsed lung). Additionally, there is a risk that the EBVs may dislodge and migrate to other areas of the lungs.
EBVs are typically intended to be a permanent treatment, but the time frame of the treatment will depend on the patient’s lung condition, symptoms, and response to the treatment. The valves may need to be removed, replaced or adjusted as per the requirement of the patient.