Document resource
Introduction The Apreo BREATHE Airway Scaffold is a self-expanding nitinol implant deployed via bronchoscopy to release trapped air. The effect of emphysema distribution and collateral ventilation (CV) on treatment response is unknown. Fissure integrity (FI) can be used as a non-invasive surrogate for CV.Aim To determine the impact of heterogeneity and FI on the treatment response of the BREATHE Airway Scaffold.Method In the first-in-human studies in Australia (BREATHE-1) and in Europe (BREATHE-2), up to three scaffolds were implanted per lung in 50 patients with severe hyperinflation bilaterally. Heterogeneous disease was defined as a ≥15% difference between upper and lower lobes at -910HU. Unilateral homogeneous included one homogeneous and one heterogenous lung. Complete fissures included a FI >95% in at least one lung. Changes in lung function tests, questionnaires and 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) were measured 6-months post treatment.Results All groups showed improvement in the outcomes at 6-months post treatment (mean±SEM).Those with at least one heterogenous lung had a greater improvement. FI did not have a significant impact on outcomes.Abstract P210 Table 1Conclusion The BREATHE Airway Scaffold may be an effective treatment for emphysema-related hyperinflation, including in those with bilateral incomplete fissures and homogenous emphysema; groups typically with limited options.