Pulmonary Care

Specialty programs or treatments, notable partnerships

Lung cancer: early detection and prevention

Lung cancer, one of the most common and serious types of cancer, requires timely detection and intervention. At Adena, we understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, and offer advanced diagnostic testing and equipment, as well as a holistic approach to health and wellness aimed at lung cancer prevention.

Our dedicated lung cancer screening program is tailored for those at heightened risk. Utilizing state-of-the-art, low-dose radiation CT chest scans, we ensure a thorough yet minimally invasive examination, prioritizing patient comfort and safety.

Our holistic approach to lung health and wellness focuses on prevention by offering a range of educational opportunities aimed at lung cancer risk reduction. Key program features include:

• Tobacco cessation: Smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer. Our cessation programs provide resources and support to help individuals quit smoking and embrace a tobacco-free lifestyle.

• Nutritional guidance: A balanced diet, rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients, can play a pivotal role in cancer prevention. Our nutritionists offer personalized advice to fortify your body against potential threats.

• Physical activity: Regular exercise enhances lung capacity and overall respiratory health. Our fitness experts can guide you through routines that bolster lung function.

• Environmental awareness: Limiting exposure to harmful environmental factors, such as pollutants and carcinogens, is crucial. We provide insights into creating a healthier living environment, emphasizing the dangers of secondhand smoke.

Navigating COPD: diagnosis and management

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that restricts airflow and causes shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, and mucus production. COPD is caused primarily by chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Awareness and timely medical consultation can make a significant difference in the quality of life for those living with COPD. By addressing the condition in its initial stages, patients can significantly alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of associated complications, including other respiratory diseases, lung cancer, and cardiovascular issues.

Diagnosing COPD involves a combination of physical examinations and specific diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays, CT scans, and pulmonary function tests (PFT).

Navigating asthma: diagnosis and management

Asthma is a chronic and complex respiratory condition that involves the inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult for individuals to breathe. When exposed to triggers, such as allergens or irritants, the airways become inflamed, leading to symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Diagnosing Asthma involves a combination of physical exam, pulmonary function test (PFT), Methacholine challenge, imaging and labs.

Prevention and Long-term control focuses on avoiding triggers, monitoring lung function at home, and following an asthma action plan developed with your pulmonologist..

What technologies are used to help treat patients? 

Lung nodules:

Once a lung cancer screening detects a nodule, you may be referred to our Lung Nodule Program, which includes further testing and monitoring of your nodule to determine if a nodule is cancerous. This program incorporates a flexible, pliable ION robotic-assisted bronchoscopy system that can biopsy the abnormal nodule. The Robotic Bronchoscopy is able to reach smaller nodules in all areas of the lung. This assists in early diagnosis and improved outcomes.

Sleep apnea:

Sleep apnea patients who can't tolerate sleep machines may be good candidates for Inspire, an upper airway implantable stimulation device that helps to keep your airway open during sleep. Inspire is essentially a breathing sensor that sends mild stimulation signals to the nerves in your tongue to keep it from blocking your airway while asleep.

Emphysema:

If you have been diagnosed with advanced emphysema, also called Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Endobronchial Valve treatment (Zephyr Valve) might be an option for you. Patients living with emphysema experience shortness of breath and poor exercise tolerance because areas within the lungs are diseased and are holding trapped air (hyperinflation of the lung). This makes it difficult to inhale and fill the lungs with new air. There is no cure for COPD or emphysema, but Endobronchial Valve treatment can improve your lung function and quality of life.

Endobronchial valves are removable, one-way valves that reduce lung hyperinflation by allowing the trapped air to escape. As a result, lung function may improve when healthier areas of the lungs provide the necessary oxygen exchange. They are a safe, effective, and approved treatment option for eligible patients back by research-based evidence.