Non-invasive ways to mimic Lung Volume Reduction Surgery have been around since the early 2000s. There have been vents, valves, steam and glue used to try to somehow cut off the diseased portions of the lungs and allow less damaged areas to flourish. None to my knowledge have been approved by the FDA for use in the US, though many are in use in Australia, Europe and other parts of the world. The best results have been found when the strict standards required by LVRS are applied, especially in regards to the difference between damage in the upper and lower lobes. For a good explanation of the LVRS procedure and standards, go to: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-pro/resources/l...

There is a newer procedure that seems to be gathering traction, and that's the coil trials. The coils are designed to let air out of the damaged areas, opening the clogged airways to the size they are naturally. These are still in trials around the US; I don't think they're still recruiting though. These might have some good possibilities for the future.

None of these things come without cost, but some folks think the benefits outweigh the downsides.

@ Jean......Is this the Coils you are talking about??

''Tiny coils improve quality of life for patients with severe emphysema

Date: May 15, 2016
Source:University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences

The minimally invasive implantation of tiny coils into the lungs improves exercise ability, lung function and quality of life for patients with severe emphysema, according to a large international trial presented by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. The findings were published in the Journal of the American Medical Association and presented today at the American Thoracic Society International Meeting in San Francisco.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/05/1...

That's the one! The process is different in that the coils open up the diseased areas rather than trying to close them off. The results tend to be better, too. The other advantage is that where the damage is doesn't matter; this procedure can be done anywhere in the lungs.

Yes..similar to a few i have read....You would expect much more feedback before venturing down that path.....I did write in to those involved in the procedure but no replies.....one comment was even deleted....Makes you think.....Anyway....i am not qualified even if it worked miracles but have my reasons for wanting to find out more.......take care Bev xxxxxx

I. Can see if my son can get more info on this as the lady has had it done in Chicago.