Devices, methods, and systems to treat chronic bronchitis

Abstract

Systems and methods involve abrading a patient lung airway wall to reduce mucus production therein. Exemplary techniques include rotationally and/or linearly oscillating an abrasive material against the airway wall so as to damage mucus producing tissues, for example by removing goblet cells, while destroying less than the entire airway wall. The abrasive material may be present on the surface of an expandable balloon body or another expandable device, which can be delivered to the patient treatment site via a bronchoscope. In some cases, the abrasion techniques can cause cell damage or death at a controlled or predetermined tissue depth.