Endobronchial Silicone Valve for Patients With Emphysema

The Cardiotech medical technology CO., LTD Endobronchial Silicone Valve (ESV) is a novel designed implantable bronchial valve intended to decrease volume in targeted regions of the lung. It is indicated for the treatment of patients with severe emphysema. The ESV are placed in the diseased region of the lung using bronchoscopy. Bronchoscopy is a way to access the lungs using a small tube with a camera on the end. As the diseased region of the lung shrinks in size, healthier regions may expand and function more efficiently, resulting in improved breathing.

This clinical trial included two groups. Participants are assigned at random to the 'Treatment' group or to the 'Control' group. The 'Treatment' group will receive the Cardiotech medical technology CO., LTD Endobronchial Silicone Valve (ESV) with optimal medical therapy. The 'Control' group will receive optimal medical therapy alone. For every three participants in the study, two will go into the 'Treatment' group and one will go into the 'Control' group. For every three participants in the study, two will go into the 'Treatment' group and one will go into the 'Control' group.

It is hypothesized that the after placement of the EBV, lung function will be improved as compared to standard medical therapy alone.

Inclusion criteria

• Clinical and radiological evidence of emphysema
• Nonsmoking for 4 months prior to screening interview
• BMI less than 35 kg/m2
• Stable on current medication regimen
• Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) between 15% and 45% of predicted value
• Residual Volume less than 175% predicted (determined by body plethysmography)
• Little or no collateral ventilation (CV-) as determined using the Chartis System

Exclusion criteria

• Had two or more hospitalizations over the last year for a COPD exacerbation
• Had two or more hospitalizations over the last year for pneumonia
• Had a prior lung transplant, lung volume reduction surgery, bullectomy or lobectomy
• Had a heart attack or congestive heart failure within the last 6 months
• Have heart arrhythmia
• Is alpha-1 antitrypsin deficient