This procedure can only be done as part of a research study. This is because there is not enough evidence to be sure how well it works or how safe it is.
Your healthcare professional should talk to you about the research.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the name for a group of lung conditions including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. The airways in the lungs become narrowed and secrete too much mucus, causing breathing difficulties.
In this procedure, a bronchoscope (a tube with a camera on the end) is passed through the mouth or nose and into the lungs. A balloon and an electrode are used to destroy (ablate) the nerves on the outside of the airway (endobronchial nerves) using radiofrequency energy, to widen the airway and reduce mucus production. The aim is to improve breathing.
The NHS website may have information on your condition and treatment options.
Is this procedure right for me?
You should be included in making decisions about your care.
Your healthcare professionals should explain the risks and benefits of this procedure and how it is done. They should discuss your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. They should offer you more information about the procedure. Your family or carers can be involved if you want or need them to be.
You will be asked to decide whether you agree (consent) to have the procedure. Find out more about giving consent to treatment on the NHS website.
Some questions to think about
- How many appointments will I need?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- Will I have to stay in hospital?
- What happens if it does not work or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I do not want the procedure?
- Are other treatments available?
More information
- NICE's information on interventional procedures guidance explains what an interventional procedure is and how we assess it.
- NICE’s information on interventional procedures recommendations explains what only in research means.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-4371-5
This page was last updated: