Spectrum Health Offers New Valve Treatment for Emphysema

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., July 15, 2021 – Spectrum Health is one of the first hospitals in Michigan to offer a novel treatment for emphysema, a severe form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The treatment uses the Zephyr® Valve system, an FDA-approved minimally invasive procedure requiring no incisions or cutting.

“We are proud to offer this new treatment because our severe COPD and emphysema patients struggle with each breath,” said Dr. Gustavo Cumbo-Nacheli, interventional pulmonologist at Spectrum Health. “Until now, the treatment options for these patients were highly invasive procedures. Zephyr has the potential to be a life-changer for many patients.”

The one-time procedure is done during a simple 30 to 60-minute bronchoscopy that requires no incision. It places an average of four tiny Zephyr valves into the airways to block diseased parts of the lungs. This reduces hyperinflation of the damaged areas and allows healthier lung tissue to expand and ease pressure off the diaphragm.

“This results in patients being less short of breath and having an easier time breathing,” said Dr. Cumbo-Nacheli. “Clinical studies show that patients treated with Zephyr valves enjoy a significantly improved quality of life compared to untreated patients.”

To learn more or to see if patients qualify for the Zephyr treatment, call 616-504-2988.

Emphysema is a progressive and life-threatening lung disease for which there is no cure. More than 15 million Americans suffer from COPD and 3.5 million of those patients have emphysema, the American Lung Association reports.

Visit spectrumhealth.org to find out more about services offered by Spectrum Health’s Interventional Pulmonology Team.

People are at the heart of everything we do, and the inspiration for our long and continuing legacy of strong community partnerships, philanthropy and transparency. Our award-winning team improves health, inspires hope and saves lives across 13 counties in West Michigan. We bring together 11 hospitals—including Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, with expert care from 350+ pediatric specialists in 70+ specialties and programs—three rehabilitation and nursing centers, 120 outpatient sites and telehealth services. We are proud to work with 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers, including Spectrum Health Medical Group, one of the largest and most comprehensive multispecialty physician groups in West Michigan.

Contact:
Tim Hawkins
Media Relations
Office: 616.486.6091
Mobile: 616.443.0361
Email: timothy.hawkins@corewellhealth.org