Airway Clearance Therapy (ACT) is an essential tool to help manage symptoms of several respiratory diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Today, we will discuss the importance of airway clearance and highlight how the AffloVest can be beneficial, so continue reading to learn more!

Why is Airway Clearance Important? 

  • Bronchi and bronchioles are the tubes that make up the airways in the lungs. These tubes allow the lungs to receive oxygen, and the cilia in these tubes allow mucus to move along the airways and clear from the lungs. 
  • Lung diseases can increase mucus production and negatively affect the ability to cough and clear the airway. Stagnant mucus can build up in the airways, which could lead to reoccurring respiratory infections. The consistent return of lung infections can result in a damaged airway and decreased lung function. Coughing is the natural way of airway clearance, but lung diseases can make this more difficult, which is where airway clearance techniques can help.
  • Many airway clearance techniques loosen thick mucus accumulated in the airways, allowing it to become mobile and removed from the lungs.

What is the AffloVest? 

  • High-Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation (HFCWO) is one of the effective airway clearance techniques. HFCWO utilizes a mechanical vest that produces vibrations to help loosen thick, sticky mucus. The AffloVest provides efficient high-frequency chest wall oscillation while allowing the patient to remain mobile. 
  • The AffloVest is battery-powered, giving patients complete freedom and mobility while receiving airway clearance therapy. 
  • The AffloVest provides patients with personalized therapy with eight anatomically positioned oscillating motors that effectively target each lobe of the lungs to loosen and mobilize mucus in the lungs. 
  • Intensity, percussion, vibration, and drainage settings can all be customized to fit each patient's needs. 
  • The AffloVest allows the patient to continue to live their everyday life while receiving effective airway clearance therapy as it is lightweight and does not require loud hoses or bulky generators. 

Airway clearance is critical for effectively managing respiratory diseases that increase mucus production and make coughing difficult. The AffloVest effectively mobilizes lung secretions to help treat patients with neuromuscular and respiratory conditions. To learn more about the AffloVest, check out our website or contact us if you have any questions!