Asthmatx asthma procedure trial begins at Californian university

Bronchial thermoplasty, a minimally invasive procedure, uses Asthmatx’ Alair system to deliver heat to the airway walls to reduce the presence of airway smooth muscle, the tissue responsible for airway constriction and breathing difficulties in asthma patients.

The out-patient procedure is performed through a standard flexible bronchoscope that is introduced through a patient’s nose or mouth and into their lungs. The small diameter Alair catheter is delivered into the airways through the working channel of the flexible bronchoscope. The tip of the Alair catheter is expanded and thermal energy is delivered to reduce the ability of treated airways to constrict.

The procedure, like many other flexible endoscopy procedures, is done under light anesthesia, and the patient returns home the same day.

“To date, doctors have relied on drugs, such as inhaled steroids, to reduce inflammation in the lungs. But about 30% of asthmatics don’t respond well to inhaled steroids,” said Dr Richard Barbers, professor of clinical medicine at the Keck School of Medicine and principal investigator of the study at USC. “Our research has found that some people stop responding to inhaled steroids because of permanent changes to their airways…We are hoping bronchial thermoplasty will provide a new treatment option.”

Approximately 300 patients will be enrolled worldwide in the study during the coming year. Currently, more than 100 patients have already entered the pre-treatment baseline period or have started their treatment course.

Researchers have been careful to point out that there is no expectation that this new investigational procedure will cure asthma. However, it is hoped that the procedure will prove useful in reducing the severity and frequency of asthma symptoms, and improve patients’ quality of life.