Bronchial thermoplasty for asthma

Bronchial thermoplasty is a procedure used to treat asthma that is not well-controlled by medication. Smooth muscle in the lungs is altered by placement of a radiofrequency catheter that heats the muscle tissue, reducing the likelihood of bronchoconstriction during an asthma reaction.

Status: Decision completed

Why is bronchial thermoplasty being reviewed?

There are high concerns related to the safety and efficacy of bronchial thermoplasty, and medium concerns for the cost-effectiveness of the procedure.

Primary criteria ranking

  • Safety = High
  • Efficacy = High
  • Cost = Medium

Documentation

Assessment timeline

  • Draft key questions published: October 21, 2015
    • Public comment period: October 22 to November 4, 2015
  • Final key questions published: November 24, 2015
  • Draft report published: February 17, 2016
    • Public comment period: February 17 to March 18, 2016
  • Final report published: April 15, 2016
  • HTCC public meeting: May 20, 2016