Potential treatment option for severe emphysema u...( Emory University researchers are par...),Health
Emory University researchers are participating in a nationwide study to explore an investigational treatment for advanced widespread emphysema. The EASE (Exhale Airway Stents for Emphysema) Trial focuses on airway bypass, a minimally invasive procedure designed to reduce excessive lung inflation and shortness of breath typical complications of emphysema - by making new pathways for trapped air to exit the lungs.
During the airway bypass procedure, new openings are created in the airway wall connecting the damaged lung tissue to the natural airway. These pathways are supported and kept open by several new drug-eluting stents.
"Emphysema permanently destroys lung function and there are currently limited treatment options for people with this devastating disease," says Rabih Bechara, MD, assistant professor and director of interventional pulmonology, Emory University School of Medicine. "This is an exciting study that could offer substantial relief to participants, and eventually possibly to the millions who suffer from the effects of emphysema."
Emphysema, usually caused by chronic tobacco smoking, is a persistent, progressive and irreversible lung disease characterized by shortness of breath and the destruction of lung tissue. Over time, the tiny air sacs in the lungs, or alveoli, are damaged and lose their elasticity.
This loss of the lungs' natural elasticity and the collapse of airways in the lung combine to make exhalation ineffective, leaving emphysema sufferers with hyperinflation because they are unable to get air out of their lungs. Breathing becomes inefficient and patients have to work very hard to breathe making normal activities, such as walking, eating or even bathing, difficult. There is no cure and few treatment options are available for most patients.
"By creating new pathways for airflow with the airway bypass procedure, we hope to reduce hyperinflation and improve lung function," says Bechara
'/>"/>
| Contact: Jennifer Johnson jennifer.johnson@emory.edu 404-727-5696 Emory University Source:Eurekalert |
Related medicine news :
1. How to Help Down Syndrome and Other Special Needs Children - Free Booklet and Parenting Course Available This Month From The Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential
2. Vasculitis Foundation Integrates Education, Outreach and Technology in First-Ever Webinar on Potentially Life-Threatening Disease
3. A potential approach to treatment of hepatitis B virus infection
4. LegalView Warns Proton Pump Inhibitor Patients of Potential Bone Fracture Risk Associated with Drug
5. Measures to assess potential lung injury during ventilation inadequate
6. Malaria prevention reduces anemia and improves educational potential in Kenyan schoolchildren
7. PMC and County Announce Potential Capital Partners for Hospital
8. Announcement Outlines 36 Month Custom Deployment Contract With Potential Revenues Reaching $30 Million Dollars
9. Wake Forest researchers say popular fish contains potentially dangerous fatty acid combination
10. Study further defines potential role of fish-based fatty acids in resolving, preventing asthma
11. CIBC World Markets Equity Research Downgrades Target Price of BVF from $12.00 to a Staggering Low of $7.50 Based on Potential Incumbent Win in Proxy Battle
| Copyright © 2003-2009 Bio-Medicine. All rights reserved. ABOUT | CONTACT US | DISCLAIMER | PRIVACY POLICY | TERMS AND CONDITIONS |  |