Citizens Memorial Hospital | Vitality | Fall 2025

citizensmemorial.com 7 For people living with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema, even simple tasks like getting dressed or taking a shower can feel exhausting. These lung conditions affect millions of Americans and are among the leading causes of disability. Now, a new, minimally invasive treatment is bringing real relief—and real hope—to qualified patients in southwest Missouri. Hard to breathe “COPD is an obstructive lung disease that makes it difficult for patients to exhale effectively,” explains board-certified pulmonologist Jason Bailey, D.O., of CMH Pulmonology Clinic. “They often experience shortness of breath because their lungs are damaged and their diaphragms are flattened, making it harder to breathe.” Until recently, treatment options were mostly limited to medications—especially inhalers. “While inhalers can help, the improvement in lung function is modest—typically around 3%,” says Dr. Bailey. “They offer some relief, but not enough to truly improve daily life.” Letting it all out Now, a new procedure approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration—called endobronchial valve placement—is offering a breakthrough alternative. Instead of surgery, doctors use a thin tube called a bronchoscope to place small, one-way valves in the most damaged areas of the lungs. The scope goes through the mouth, so no cuts or stitches are needed. The Zephyr valves allow trapped air to escape, helping the healthier parts of the lung expand and work more efficiently. Find out if it’s for you “There are very specific criteria patients must meet to qualify,” Dr. Bailey explains. “But when they do, the results can be remarkable. We’ve seen lung function improve by up to 30%.” At CMH Pulmonology Clinic, each patient undergoes a full evaluation—including imaging and pulmonary function testing—to determine eligibility. “For individuals with COPD, even something as simple as a deep breath can be difficult,” Dr. Bailey adds. “After this procedure, many can make the bed, take a shower or go for a walk without gasping for air. It’s truly life-changing.” Pamela, Actual pe Zephyr V Results m You deserve to breathe easier Living with severe COPD/emphysema can make everyday tasks a challenge. But you’re not one to give in or give up. If your current treatments alone are not enough, FDA-approved Zephyr® Valves may help. Zeph insur While in guaran for the Z covered How Zephyr® Valves work The Zephyr Valve treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that is completed in about an hour. The valves are placed by bronchoscopy—a flexible small tube inserted in the mouth or nose. This requires no incisions or cutting. The procedure requires a 3-night hospital stay to allow for careful observation. After the procedure, it is important to continue to take medications as prescribed by your doctor. Breathe Easier Be less short of breath with increased lung function.1 Have More Freedom Do more things on your own, like bathing, cooking, and cleaning.1 Enjoy Life More Have more energy and get back to your favorite hobbies and socializing.1 Complications of endobronchial valve treatment can include, but are not limited to, pneumothorax, worsening of COPD symptoms, hemoptysis, pneumonia, dyspnea, and, in rare cases, death. Whe my pr co Feel More Confident When leaving home and living life.1 1 3 2 This is a diseased lung. It is hyperinflated, trapped air in the lungs that cannot be released, putting pressure on the diaphragm. Zephyr Valves are placed in the most diseased part of the lungs using a standard bronchoscope and flexible catheter. The valves allow trapped air in the lungs to escape while preventing more air from entering this part of the lung. This allows the healthy parts of the lungs to expand more fully. With the trapped air released, lung volume is reduced, and pressure on the diaphragm is relieved —improving breathing and lung function. 4 *Pulmonx P through th patients op notice bec regulation Administra insurance p Med covers who certain Breathe easier New COPD treatment now available at CMH Pulmonology Clinic Find relief Get started by calling the CMH Pulmonology Clinic in Bolivar at 417-328-6055. Infographic by Pulmonx Corp.

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