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 medications

How 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. 

Courtesy: Boston Scientific

The patient is monitored after the procedure and usually goes home the same day or early the next day. 

Does BT have any side effects?

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath

For more information, contact your primary care doctor or visit btforasthma.com.

Health care professionals: Visit this web site for details.