IOWA CITY, IA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 07/30/08 -- Volunteers are being recruited for theresearch study of a new investigational procedure that could help relieveshortness of breath and other symptoms for people with severe emphysema.Called airway bypass, this minimally invasive procedure creates newopenings in the airway wall connecting the damaged lung tissue to thenatural airway. These pathways are supported and kept open by Exhale®Drug-Eluting Stents. The goal is to give air that is trapped in the lungsa way to escape, enabling the person to breathe easier.
The bronchoscopic procedure is being tested by lung experts at Universityof Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and other sites internationally, as part ofthe Exhale Airway Stents for Emphysema (EASE) Trial.
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics is currently recruiting patientsfor the EASE Trial. Involvement in the study will last from approximately15 months up to 5 years (depending on if the patient is randomized to thecontrol or the treatment group) and include 8 to 16 physician appointments.All study-related medical procedures will be carried out at no charge tothe patient. Patients will be closely monitored throughout the trial.Participants will also receive at least 14 weeks of pulmonaryrehabilitation therapy.
If you or someone you know over the age of 35 has been diagnosed withadvanced widespread emphysema and no longer smoke (or would be willing tostop smoking two months prior to the study), you may qualify to participatein this study. For more information please call 866-431-3273 or visitwww.EASEtrialUS.com.
