Jennifer Matthews: Robert Baker knows a thing or two about playing pool.
Robert Baker: This is my table.
Jennifer Matthews: But a few months ago, even this simple hobby became difficult. Robert has emphysema.
Robert Baker: It became more and more difficult to breathe. Any exertion at all and I'd be gasping for breath.
Jennifer Matthews: He couldn't even walk to get his mail.
Robert Baker: I couldn't go more than like a 100 yards if that.
Jennifer Matthews: Emphysema happens when sacs in the lungs grow too big and air gets trapped.
Jonathon Truwit: So they have over-inflated lungs, much like they look like Michelin Man on the inside.
Jennifer Matthews: Now, Doctor Jonathon Truwit is offering patients a new, non-surgical option. Tiny valves like this one are implanted in the lungs through a scope. The valves act like an umbrella. They prevent air from entering diseased sections of the lungs and redirect it to healthier areas.
Jonathon Truwit: The air will hit the umbrella and get trapped by the umbrella and turn around and come out.
Jennifer Matthews: There is no incision, so the valve procedure is less risky than standard surgery and recovery is easier.
Jonathon Truwit: I think we're offering opportunities for patients, should this work out to have really a non or a less invasive means of improving their quality of life.
Jennifer Matthews: Robert's felt the benefits.
Robert Baker: I'm more energetic. I'm just healthier.
Jennifer Matthews: And today, he feels good enough to beat his wife at his favorite game.
Robert Baker: She likes me whenever now and then.
Jennifer Matthews: This is Jennifer Matthews reporting.
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