attacks 84% reduction in emergency room visits for respiratory symptoms 66% reduction in days lost from work, school, or other daily activities due to asthma symptoms 73% reduction in hospitalizations for respiratory symptoms In a clinical study, bronchial thermoplasty has been proven to provide long-term reduction in asthma induced breathing difficulty to at least 5 years and improve the quality of life for severe persistent asthma patients. Reduction in asthma attacks, ER visits, and hospitalizations for respiratory symptoms are maintained to at least 5 years. These benefits were observed during clinical studies where patients continued to take their standard maintenance asthma medications which included combinations of inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators. Risks In the period immediately following the bronchial thermoplasty procedure, there was an expected transient increase in the frequency and worsening of respiratory-related symptoms. Bronchial thermoplasty is not appropriate for patients who: Are under 18 years old Have a pacemaker, internal defibrillator, or other implantable electronic device Have a known sensitivity to medications required to perform bronchoscopy, including lidocaine, atropine and benzodiazepines Have previously been treated with bronchial thermoplasty Bronchial thermoplasty is irreversible; the smooth muscle tissue which is destroyed cannot be recovered. Procedure Availability Bronchial thermoplasty was first approved by FDA in April 2010. Bronchial thermoplasty is now being used as a treatment in many countries which include United Kingdom, India, and United States. References Asthma Respiratory therapy Articles containing video clips