The primary objectives are to prospectively document changes in FEV1 and health-related quality of life 12 months following sequential segmental treatment with Bronchoscopic Thermal Vapor Ablation (BTVA) using the InterVapor system in patients with heterogeneous emphysema with upper lobe predominance. The French TARGET trial is a prospective, multi-center, single blind, randomized controlled study. 150 participants will be enrolled in the study (1:1 randomization with 75 InterVapor, 75 controls) with a 12-month follow-up period. Subjects randomized to the Control Group may be allowed to cross over to the treatment group and offered the InterVapor treatment once they have completed the protocol defined follow-up period.
This study is designed to prospectively document changes in FEV1 and health-related quality of life 12 months following sequential segmental treatment with InterVapor® in patients with heterogeneous emphysema with upper lobe predominance. For validity of the study, the results will be compared to patients that receive optimal medical therapy.