What is the key difference between BBD and Rheoplasty?

BBD works by mechanical balloon inflation and covers all 19 segments. Rheoplasty uses Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) energy and primarily targets goblet cells. The two treatments have completely different mechanisms.

I have a pacemaker. Can I have BBD?

Yes. BBD is a mechanical method; it does not use electrical energy. Therefore, unlike Rheoplasty, BBD is generally not a barrier for patients with a pacemaker or ICD.

Treatments›COPD›Bronchial Balloon Deobstruction

Bronchial Balloon Deobstruction (BBD)

Mechanical balloon inflation for mucus clearance and airway widening

Procedure Time

45-60 min

Hospital Stay

1-2 nights

Recovery

1-2 weeks

Success Rate

55-70%

In Short

Bronchial Balloon Deobstruction (BBD) is a mechanical treatment in which a specialized balloon is inserted into narrowed airways via bronchoscope and inflated. The balloon clears mucus plugs and widens narrowed bronchi, and debrides the bronchial mucosa. It can be applied to all 19 bronchopulmonary segments, treating the entire lung's airways in a single session.

Who Is a Candidate?

Suitable Candidates

✓ Chronic bronchitis-dominant COPD
✓ Chronic excess mucus production and mucus plugging
✓ FEV1 25-65%
✓ Former smoker (at least 4 months)
✓ Patients not suitable for valve or coil therapy

Not Eligible

✗ Active lung infection
✗ Uncontrolled cardiac disease
✗ Severe coagulation disorder

How the Procedure Works

1. Bronchoscopy

A flexible bronchoscope is advanced through the mouth into the airways; target bronchi are visualized.

2. Balloon Placement

A specialized balloon catheter is positioned in the target segmental bronchi.

3. Controlled Inflation

The balloon is inflated to a specific pressure using a pressure manometer; this mechanical force widens the airway and dislodges mucus.

4. All Segments

The procedure is applied sequentially to all 19 bronchopulmonary segments.

5. Discharge

1-2 days hospital stay needed for close observation.

Benefits & Expected Outcomes

Applicable to all 19 bronchopulmonary segments
Reduction in chronic cough and sputum production
Decrease in exacerbation frequency
Safe for patients with pacemaker/ICD (no electrical energy used)
Rapid recovery

Risks & Complications

⚠️ As with any medical procedure, there are risks. The following is evidence-based information.

• Transient airway irritation
• COPD exacerbation (15-20%)
• Mild hemoptysis (rare)

Recovery Process

Day 0-2

Procedure + 1-2 days hospital stay for close observation

Week 1

Mild increase in cough is a normal expected response

Month 1

Symptom assessment

Month 3-6

Full efficacy assessment

Tests Required for Evaluation

Upload the following documents in your Free Evaluation form for remote candidacy assessment:

✓ Chest CT (non-contrast, ≤1mm slice)
✓ Spirometry + DLCO
✓ 6-Minute Walk Test
✓ Complete blood count + biochemistry
✓ V/Q Scintigraphy (pre- and post-procedural)
VQ - Ventilation/Perfusion Scintigraphy: In advanced emphysema (GOLD 3–4), guides target lobe selection and objectively monitors functional gain pre- and post-procedurally.

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Compare Your Options

Feature	Mechanical (Balloon deobstruction)	Electrical (PEF)	Valve (one-way)
Target	Mucus clearance + airway widening	Goblet cell reduction	Airway blockade
Coverage	All 19 segments	Main bronchi + large branches	Target segments
Pacemaker compatible	Yes	No (contraindicated)	Yes

Patient Experience

I woke up every morning with a coughing fit. Six weeks after BBD, the mucus was much reduced and breathing became much easier.

🇳🇱

Anonymous patient

Netherlands · 58 years old

Frequently Asked Questions

Scientific References

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Next Treatment

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