How does endobronchial coil differ from valve therapy?

Coil treatment does not require fissure integrity and is suitable for homogeneous emphysema. While valves control one-way airflow, coils work through mechanical compression.

How many sessions does coil treatment require?

Typically 2 sessions are needed (first one lung, then the other 4-8 weeks later). Each session takes 45-90 minutes.

Treatments›COPD›Endobronchial Coil Treatment

Endobronchial Coil Treatment

Spiral coil implantation for homogeneous and heterogeneous emphysema

Procedure Time

45-90 min

Hospital Stay

2-3 nights

Recovery

3-6 weeks

Success Rate

55-70%

In Short

Endobronchial coil treatment places small spiral (spring-shaped) metallic devices into the airways. These coils compress the over-expanded, damaged lung tissue, creating space for healthy tissue and restoring elasticity.

Who Is a Candidate?

Suitable Candidates

✓ GOLD Stage 3-4 emphysema
✓ Homogeneous or heterogeneous emphysema (suitable for both)
✓ FEV1 20-45%
✓ Marked hyperinflation (RV/TLC >58%)

Not Eligible

✗ Active infection or exacerbation
✗ Severe pulmonary hypertension
✗ Active smoking

How the Procedure Works

1. Planning

CT is used to plan coil size and count; typically two bilateral sessions are performed.

2. Bronchoscopy

A flexible bronchoscope is used to reach the target segments.

3. Coil Placement

8-12 coils are placed per lobe; coils assume a spring shape once inside the body.

4. Tissue Compression

Coils pull surrounding emphysematous tissue, causing it to collapse.

Benefits & Expected Outcomes

Alternative to valve therapy for homogeneous emphysema
Does not require fissure integrity
Significant improvement in breathlessness
Positive change in 6-minute walk test

Risks & Complications

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

• COPD exacerbation (20-25%)
• Chest pain (10%)
• Pneumothorax (5-6%)
• Pneumonia (3-5%)
• Hemoptysis (rare)
• Coil migration (rare)

Recovery Process

Day 0-3

Procedure, antibiotic prophylaxis, monitoring

Week 1-2

Home rest

Month 1-3

Functional assessment

Month 6-12

Planning second session (for bilateral treatment)

Tests Required for Evaluation

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

✓ High-Resolution Chest CT (≤1mm, on CD)
✓ Spirometry + DLCO
✓ Full lung volumes (plethysmography)
✓ 6-Minute Walk Test
✓ Arterial Blood Gas
✓ 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	Spiral coil implantation	One-way valve	Surgical LVRS
Fissure integrity	Not required	Required (≥90%)	Not required
Emphysema type	Both	Heterogeneous	Heterogeneous
Sessions	2 sessions (6-8 weeks apart)	1 session	1 surgery

Patient Experience

I came here while I was on an NHS waiting list. After my second session, my walking distance doubled.

🇬🇧

Anonymous patient

United Kingdom · 63 years old

Frequently Asked Questions

Scientific References

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