>FAQs

FAQs

How Does the AeriSeal System Work?

A bronchoscope is used to deliver AeriSeal Foam Sealant into the diseased areas of the lungs. The Foam Sealant functions as a “glue” to seal and shrink the treated areas, reducing their volume and allowing the remaining lung and respiratory muscles to function better.

Who can be treated with the AeriSeal System?

Not all forms of emphysema can be successfully treated with this therapy. Patients must be diagnosed with advanced emphysema and have acceptable treatment sites in the upper lobes.

The AeriSeal System is not recommended for patients that have active respiratory infections, COPD exacerbations, or bronchospasm.

Patients that have had prior lung transplantation, lung volume reduction surgery, or are unable to tolerate bronchoscopic procedures also should not be treated.

AeriSeal therapy is not for everyone, so please talk to your doctor to see if you are a candidate for this treatment.

As with surgery, treatment with the AeriSeal System is permanent. Depending on the severity and distribution of your emphysema, other treatments may be available. You will need to discuss these options with your doctor.

What can I expect during AeriSeal System treatment?

Your doctor will identify regions for treatment prior to the procedure based on a CT scan of your lungs. A typical procedure will require treatment at 2–4 regions.

The procedure will be performed under conscious sedation or general anesthesia. Your physician will identify the most appropriate method of anesthesia for you. Treatment can often be completed in 15-20 minutes.

The doctor will use a bronchoscope to administer AeriSeal Foam Sealant into the diseased areas of the lungs.

Your doctor may prefer to treat in 2 sessions several months apart.

Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics and steroids for the week just after the procedure to speed recovery and may require you to stay in the hospital for observation.

What can I expect after my AeriSeal System treatment?

Twelve to 24 hours after treatment, you may experience flu-like symptoms such as chills, fever, and fatigue. You may also experience, chest pain, shortness of breath, and cough. These symptoms typically last a few days and can be treated with routine medications until they resolve.

Over a period of several weeks, the treated area will start to shrink, reducing lung volume and improving breathing function and quality of life.

Is the AeriSeal System the same as the earlier BLVR System?

No. The Biological Lung Volume Reduction (BLVR) System was Aeris' first generation bronchoscopic lung volume reduction system, which contained blood plasma derivatives. Clinical trials of the BLVR System showed that was safe and effective. Those results served as the basis for Aeris' current lung volume reduction system, the AeriSeal System, formerly known as the PLVR System. In contrast to the BLVR System, the AeriSeal System is synthetic and contains no blood-derived products.

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