Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis (CF) affects approximately 30,000 people in the United States. The genetic defect associated with CF causes mucus-producing cells in the body to produce secretions that are very thick.
In the lungs, the secretions can lead to a number of serious pulmonary complications, including:
- Chronic or persistent infection
- Mucus plugging
- Atelectasis
- Impaired gas exchange
- Tissue damage
To reduce the risk of serious pulmonary complications, CF patients require daily Airway Clearance Therapy.
Airway Clearance with The Vest® System
The Vest® Airway Clearance System is an easy-to-use medical device for children and adults. The Vest® System is quiet, comfortable and portable. Its features promote user independence and simplify treatment routines.
The Vest® System uses a technology called High Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation (HFCWO). The Vest® System has an inflatable vest connected by Air Hoses to an Air Pulse Generator. During therapy, the inflatable vest inflates and deflates rapidly, applying gentle pressure to the chest wall. This works to loosen and thin mucus and to move it toward the larger airways, where it can be cleared by coughing or suctioning.
The Vest® System — Safe and Effective Therapy
HFCWO has been widely described in medical literature. More than 80 studies demonstrate the efficacy and safety of HFCWO for a variety of patients.
Learn more about clinical evidence and support:
- HFCWO (The Vest® System) Research in CF
- A Cost Analysis of HFCWO in CF
- Case Study: CF with Severe Atelectasis - Linda Cherek (employed by Hill-Rom)
- Treatment Adherence: Airway Clearance Therapy in CF - Jane Braverman (employed by Hill-Rom)
- Chest Physiotherapy: The Gold Standard? - Jane Braverman (employed by Hill-Rom)