If air trapping causes symptoms and limitation in people with emphysema, why not un-trap the air? Say, by poking holes in bronchi leading to areas of severe emphysema, and putting paclitaxel-eluting stents in place to maintain patency? The air should naturally become freed, flow out, and improve respiratory mechanics.
COPD: Exhale airway stents didn't help (bronchoscopic lung-volume reduction EASE trial)
COPD: Exhale airway stents didn't help…
COPD: Exhale airway stents didn't help (bronchoscopic lung-volume reduction EASE trial)
If air trapping causes symptoms and limitation in people with emphysema, why not un-trap the air? Say, by poking holes in bronchi leading to areas of severe emphysema, and putting paclitaxel-eluting stents in place to maintain patency? The air should naturally become freed, flow out, and improve respiratory mechanics.