Andrew Millar

Life Before Zephyr® Endobronchial Valves:

Before my emphysema diagnosis, I was very energetic. Work wise, I had a busy role hiring out construction equipment.

Outside of work, I had loads of hobbies. I enjoyed gardening and going for long walks. I loved sports, and would go to watch horse racing and football matches.

When I became unwell, my illness made it almost impossible to enjoy these things. Life with emphysema was tough, and to be honest it made me quite depressed.

I was first diagnosed with emphysema in 2014. My life was impacted massively. I could barely walk 100 yards. I couldn’t have a bath independently.

I ended up in hospital twice on two separate holidays. It was a frightening time. I simply couldn’t breathe. The second time, a nurse had to take me back home from Spain.

That’s when I knew I had to get proper treatment. I was referred to Dr. Ravi Mahadeva. He sent me to pulmonary rehab for six months, which helped, but I was still struggling to breathe.

So he started to explore other options. He said I could have a lung reduction or Zephyr Valve treatment. I said I’d prefer Zephyr Valve treatment as it’s a minimally invasive procedure, which felt less daunting at my age.

My doctor did some tests and confirmed I was eligible, and so I said “Yes, let’s go for it!”. I was determined to do whatever was needed to feel better.

Life After Zephyr Endobronchial Valves:

Dr. Jurgen Herre carried out my Zephyr Valve procedure at Addenbrookes Hospital in September 2019. I was 76.

It went very well. I was able to get up and walk around the next day. I felt the difference immediately. I could breathe so much more easily!

I was back home on day five and I felt like a new man. I was able to go and have a bath. I could walk up and down the stairs without thinking twice.

I’m able to do what I enjoy again. Life is so much better! I can do gardening, go for a walk — whatever I fancy. The only thing that’s tough is bending over to pick up something heavy. But if that’s my only restriction, that’s fine by me.

My partner and I are planning a holiday in August, which we’re really looking forward to. We’re going to Jersey which is just an hour flight. I checked in with my doctor and he said I should be fine to make the trip, but to take some oxygen just in case.

At my most unwell, the prospect of another holiday where I ended up in hospital was unbearable. So to be able to confidently plan one now, without that worry, feels great. I can’t wait!

What would I say to anyone with severe emphysema who is eligible for the Zephyr Valves?

Don’t hesitate! Just have it done.

Results from case studies are not necessarily predictive of results in other cases. Results in other cases may vary. 

Important Safety Information: The Pulmonx Zephyr®️ Endobronchial Valves are implantable bronchial valves indicated for the bronchoscopic treatment of adult patients with hyperinflation associated with severe emphysema in regions of the lung that have little to no collateral ventilation. Complications can include but are not limited to pneumothorax (tear in the lung), worsening of COPD symptoms, hemoptysis, pneumonia, and, in rare cases, death. The Zephyr Valve is contraindicated in patients who have not quit smoking. Please talk with your physician about other contraindications, warnings, precautions, and adverse events. Only a trained physician can decide whether a particular patient is an appropriate candidate for treatment with the Zephyr Valve.

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