Salem Health offers hope for patients with severe asthma Adults with severe asthma have a way to breathe better thanks to a safe, minimally invasive, outpatient procedure. Salem Health now offers bronchial thermoplasty, a clinically proven, long-term treatment that greatly improves quality of life for severe asthma patients.Salem Hospital is the only facility offering BT in the Mid-Willamette Valley.Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, BT reduces asthma attacks by reducing smooth muscle in the airway with a catheter. With less smooth muscle, the airway constricts less and breathing is easier. Fewer asthma attacks means patients won’t need the usual inhalers or medications — and can avoid their side effects. Who makes a good candidate for BT? Adults over the age of 18 Nonsmokers (for at least the past year)Those with severe or persistent asthma not controlled by inhalers or medicationsHow is BT performed?BT involves three separate visits performed at least three weeks apart. Under anesthesia, a lighted catheter applies heat to the smooth muscle in the bronchial tubes. The patient is monitored after the procedure and usually goes home the same day or early the next day. Courtesy: Boston ScientificDoes BT have any side effects?CoughingWheezingShortness of breathFor more information, contact your primary care doctor or visit btforasthma.com.Health care professionals: Visit this web site for details.