Endobronchial Valve Technology Platform
Consistent valve performance is at the center of our design.
Effective endobronchial valve therapy requires the implanted device to perform two essential functions: precisely control air into and out of the target lung region and prevent air from leaking around the device. Unfortunately, these two criteria represent opposing engineering goals.
To address this challenge, the Zephyr® Endobronchial Valve is specifically designed with a dual component system*:
- One-way valve - placed in the center of the device, isolated and protected for consistent valve performance regardless of variations in airway anatomy or positioning.
- Retainer - serves to anchor the device in the airway and create an airtight seal against the bronchial wall to prevent air from leaking around the device.
Together, these two distinct features are engineered to offer uncompromising endobronchial valve performance – by design.
Retainer material:
- Self-expanding scaffold made from super-elastic alloy (Nitinol) stabilizes device in airway
- Repeating rows of diamond shaped cells provide multiple contact points with bronchial wall to maximize sealing
- Entire device coated in medical grade silicone
- Designed to maximize compatibility with airway wall and prevent tissue growth through retainer
- Metal framework isolates and protects one-way valve to ensure consistent valve performance
- Precisely engineered valve opens at low pressures but closes quickly when airflow direction is reversed
- Designed to allow air and mucus to vent during exhalation
The Zephyr® Endobronchial Valve is currently manufactured in two sizes with overlapping diameter ranges (4.0-7.0 mm and 5.5-8.5 mm), in order to provide a proper fit within the bronchus.
