Bronchial Thermoplasty in Catawba County

Long Lasting Treatment for Asthma Symptoms

Though normally a very manageable disease, asthma can sometimes develop into a more serious condition referred to as “severe asthma.” Severe asthma typically affects adults and increases the frequency and potency of regular asthma symptoms. People afflicted with this condition require increased dosages of medication to soothe their symptoms, which can be a burden both physically and financially.

Bronchial Thermoplasty is cutting-edge, very safe procedure that provides a long-term treatment for severe asthma. Patients who undergo this outpatient operation can go up to a year without suffering severe asthma symptoms. The much improved quality of life patients experience has made Bronchial Thermoplasty increasingly popular treatment in recent years. At Catawba Valley Medical Center, we are proud to offer this service to people of Catawba County and the surrounding areas.

How Does it Work?

In asthma, the airway is narrowed from an excess of swollen smooth muscle. Medication provides temporary relief from this by reducing the swelling and widening the airways. In Bronchial Thermoplasty, the amount of smooth muscle in the airway is reduced, giving it more leeway to swell without causing any serious issues.

With the removal of excess smooth muscle, benefits for patients include:

• Fewer asthma attacks
• Less time off from work and/or school
• Less need for oral steroid treatment
• Long-term relief for asthma symptoms

During the operation, a bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth into the Lungs. Once it has arrived at the designated area, it releases thermal energy that cuts away at smooth muscle tissue. The procedure is relatively simple and does not require the pulmonologist to make any incisions in the patients. After a brief period of observation, patients can return home the same day they receive the operation.

After The Operation

Please be aware that this procedure does not mean you will no longer need to take asthma medication or never experience another asthma attack. The goal of the operation is to reduce the symptoms of severe asthma in patients who experience frequent attacks so they can reduce the amount of medication they need and enjoy life with fewer asthma interruptions. If a doctor has recommended BT to you, it means they believe the procedure will make a significant difference in the severity of your condition.