Article,
Bronchial thermoplasty for asthma
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF RESPIRATORY AND CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE, 173 (9): 965-969 (May 2006)
DOI: {10.1164/rccm.200507-1162OC}
Abstract
Rationale: Bronchial thermoplasty (BT) reduces the potential for smooth
muscle-mediated bronchoconstriction by reducing the mass of smooth
muscle in the walls of conducting airways.
Objectives: This study was conducted to examine the safety and impact on
lung function and airway responsiveness of BT over 2 yr.
Methods: The safety of BT was studied in 16 subjects with mild to
moderate asthma. Baseline and 12-wk post-treatment measurements included
spirometry, methacholine challenge, daily diary recordings of peak flow,
symptoms, and medication usage. Subjects completed follow-up evaluations
at 12 wk, 1 yr, and 2 yr.
Measurements and Main Results: The procedure was well tolerated; side
effects were transient and typical of what is commonly observed after
bronchoscopy. All subjects demonstrated improvement in airway
responsiveness. The mean PC20 increased by 2.37 +/- 1.72 (p < 0.001),
2.77 +/- 1.53 (p = 0.007), and 2.64 +/- 1.52 doublings (p < 0.001), at
12 wk, 1 yr, and 2 yr post-procedure, respectively. Data from daily
diaries collected for 12 wk indicated significant improvements over
baseline in symptom-free days (p = 0.015), morning peak flow (p = 0.01),
and evening peak flow (p = 0.007). Spirometry measurements remained
stable throughout the study period.
Conclusions: BT is well tolerated in patients with asthma and results in
decreased airway hyperresponsiveness that persists for at least 2 yr.
