COPD and coil surgery? lung volume reduction surgery?

Hello,

I have looked into this before and it seems to effective for the right person, which your surgeon should be able to identify - or get a second opinion. 

The benefits seem to be that it greatly improves breathlessness! Remember thought to do your research because any surgery is permanent!

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Emphman,

I'm an RN. I have COPD and Sarcoidosis affecting my lungs. This surgery is one I've never heard of, so it must be new. As suggested, I would research the surgery itself and not only the results but also by speaking with patients that have gone through it, ...do get a second opinion. 

If your shortness of breath is so bad you'd do anything... (If you don't already know), get a 'staged' diagnosis and your Pulmonologist's prognosis. So you know how severe your Emphysema is and how much time you have left.

Being a new procedure, I doubt they have many outcomes good or bad. That's why speaking with real patients that have been through it is the best information you could get. 

Think about cancer and chemotherapy...in most cases patients have a pretty good quality of life when diagnosed. If living longer is what patients want, the effects of chemo is worth it. For so many... It isn't. The end result is the same.

Lung Reduction as I know it is removal of diseased (damaged) lobes of your lungs to help the remaining lobes expand easier hence making breathing easier.

My scar tissue is in both upper lobes and middle right lobe. Their elasticity is compromised by the scarring. I have the largest lobes allowing me to breathe, I'm good with that. For now. 

Placement of a coil? Hard for me imagine pathophysiologically. However, like I said...they are doing miraculous things these days in medicine. 

I do know.. major surgery is painful and has complications in itself. Difficulty breathing is devistating. I can't do many activities because I can't breathe. It wears me out causing extreme fatigue and weakness. My lungs burn and are in pain all the time. If the possibility of breathing easier exists, and it would decrease episodes of pneumonia and such, I would consider it as well. Know the complications of the surgery well. If you are willing to go through what "may" occur...go for it, I would. If not... enjoy the time you have left, being comfortable and doing what you can. 

There are A LOT of new medical breakthroughs. There are a lot of good results. Know the complications...be prepared so you have no regrets.

Be happy...be happy with Jesus by your side. With God we have the strength to get through anything.

Much love... you're in my prayers!

Keep in touch!

@Heavenbound813 thank you so much for your reply and taking the time to write me; I have not elected the surgery. My BODE Index from what I was told was 3, which is pretty good. I am opting to not have it at this time, and I guess if it becomes neccessary, I may take the chance as I hope to survive long enough to see the grandkids grow.

I hope you are doing well and keeping your positive outlook! May I ask, how does Sarcoidosis affect your COPD?

Hello,

I am taking test now to see if I qualify for the coil surgery.  Really praying i can have this done.

I went through a clinical trial and had a small reduction done. It was mostly about lung valves and collateral ventilation.