Bronchial Thermoplasty

Bronchial thermoplasty

About bronchial thermoplasty

Bronchial thermoplasty may be resorted to in case where the asthma is not being controlled by available medications for severe asthma. The procedure uses gentle heat to shrink the smooth muscles in your lungs -- the ones that tighten during asthma attacks and make it hard to breathe.

Bronchial thermoplasty for a patient is carried out on three weeks interval for three separate sessions . Each treatment lasts less than an hour, and a different part of your lungs gets treated each time.

There is still no cure for asthma so bear in mind that bronchial thermoplasty doesn't cure asthma. But it may make you feel healthy and breathe better.

What does the treatment entail?

First is the physical examination of your chest and lungs

Immunosuppressive anti-inflammatory drug will administered intravenously followed by simple anesthesia.

Your doctor will insert a small tube called a bronchoscope through your mouth, down your throat, and into your lung. A smaller tube goes inside the bronchoscope and warms each small airway in that part of your lung. The heat is very mild.

After the treatment, you'll likely rest for 3 or 4 hours. You'll also do another lung test. Depending on the results, you might spend the night in the hospital. Or you could go home the same day.

Your doctor will check on your progress closely for 6 weeks after your last treatment.

Any Side Effects or Risks?

It's common to feel sleepy right after your treatment. You may also cough or wheeze some, or be short of breath. These symptoms usually go away in a week. In rare cases, you may need hospital care for your symptoms.

There is a risk that the treatment will trigger a bad asthma attack that may even cause you to be hospitalized.

Who Can Benefit from Bronchial Thermoplasty?

This treatment is only for people with severe asthma. Your doctor may recommend it if you:

• Have asthma attacks that aren't controlled by inhalers or asthma medicines called beta-agonists
• Are ages 18 to 65
• Have not smoked for the past year
• You need oral steroids to help control your asthma

What Are the Benefits?

After bronchial thermoplasty, you'll still need an inhaler or other asthma medicines. But you may not use them as often.

The goals of the treatment are:

• Fewer asthma attacks
• Fewer emergency room and hospital visits
• Fewer days lost from work, school, and other activities
• Better symptoms for up to 5 years after treatment