St. Vincent’s Riverside now offers a treatment for patients with severe chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD)/emphysema. The Zephyr Valve treatment helps patients breathe with less difficulty, do more and enjoy a better quality of life. St. Vincent’s Riverside is one of only five premier practices for this treatment in Florida, which means it has achieved a higher level of experience and is committed to following certain best practices aimed at optimizing results.
“This technology gives our most vulnerable chronic lung disease patients the ability to breathe easier, live healthier lives and reach their personal potential,” said Scott Kashman, president and CEO of St. Vincent's Riverside. “We are committed to delivering the most advanced care offerings to our patients and community; close to home and tailored to their specific needs.”
After a series of tests that determine a patient’s eligibility, an average of four valves are placed while the patient is under general anesthesia. These one-way valves allow the trapped air to escape but prevents new air from entering. This allows the healthier parts of the lungs to expand and relieves the pressure on the diaphragm, which decreases shortness of breath and makes breathing easier.
Globally, more than 40,000 patients have been treated with these lung valves.
More than 15 million Americans suffer from COPD, and 3.5 million of those patients have emphysema. Emphysema is a progressive and life-threatening lung disease with no cure. Patients often live with severe shortness of breath that keeps them from doing simple daily activities like walking, taking a shower, even while pausing to catch their breath or resting.
St. Vincent’s Riverside was named a High Performing Hospital for COPD care and a Best Regional Hospital by the U.S. News and World Report’s Best Hospital Rankings for 2024-25. St. Vincent’s was also named a top 15 health system in the country for 2024 by Fortune and PINC AI.
To learn more about St. Vincent’s Riverside Lung Institute, go to ascension.org.
