Targeted Lung Denervation (Nuvaira Airflow-3)

What is Targeted Lung Denervation?

This is a device therapy being studied for patients with COPD and frequent flare-ups. In the study, a small tube called a bronchoscope is placed in the lungs under anesthesia. A catheter is placed through the bronchoscope which delivers heat on the outer surface of the airway tubes to reduce vagus nerve fibers to the lungs. In COPD, these vagal nerve fibers are overactive, leading to increased mucus production and airway muscle spasms, resulting in symptoms and frequent flare-ups. Eliminating these overactive nerve fibers can potentially reduce risk of flare-ups, mucus production and hospitalizations.

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You might qualify for this if you have:

COPD and frequent flare-ups despite being on standard inhaler treatment. COPD flare-up is when you have an increase or new onset of cough, sputum, wheezing, shortness of breath or chest tightness which requires treatment with antibiotics, steroids, and/or hospitalizations.
A history of tobacco smoking, but able to quit smoking for a minimum of 2 months
Have significant symptoms of COPD assessed by COPD Assessment Test (CAT) - A standard pulmonary questionnaire

What Will My Role Be in the Study?

As a participant in the study you will be randomly assigned to receive the actual procedure or a control procedure and will be followed for 5 years. You will do questionnaires, get lung scans, lung function tests and exercise walk tests. This will be at no cost, and you will be reimbursed, up to $1150 based on which study arm you will be in. If you are assigned to the control arm, you will have an opportunity to have the actual treatment after 1 year with the study device