At the third annual World Bronchiectasis Conference* held in Washington, D.C., new clinical evidence was presented from an independent study evaluating bronchiectasis-related exacerbations using high frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) therapy. According to the study, non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis patients experienced a significant reduction in the number of severe exacerbations that require hospitalizations after using the SmartVest Airway Clearance System, suggesting early bronchiectasis treatment may significantly slow disease progression.
Key Factors in the Study:
- An exacerbation was defined as patient reported or medical record evidence of increased cough or sputum production, a change in chest imaging, or a change in lung function requiring antibiotics.
- Chest physiotherapy, in the form of high frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO), has proven to help manage bronchiectasis-related symptoms; however this is the first independent study to evaluate bronchiectasis-related exacerbations using HFCWO therapy.
- Patients used the SmartVest Airway Clearance System as their HFCWO therapy device and as part of a care bundle treatment.
Results of the Study:
The study consisted of 43 patients, all of whom had been diagnosed with bronchiectasis and had experienced recurrent exacerbations—a temporary worsening of bronchiectasis symptoms that may have included chronic cough that produces mucus, recurrent respiratory infections, breathlessness and wheezing, and general fatigue. The average patient age was 60 years, with 19% of patients having chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa—a bacterium that is known to cause pneumonia in certain patients.
After using SmartVest, the frequency of severe exacerbations requiring hospitalization was significantly reduced, and patients experienced a stabilization of key lung function parameters as a result of HFCWO.
How SmartVest Works to Improve Airway Clearance
The SmartVest system delivers an alternating flow of air into the patient’s garment that rapidly compresses and releases the chest wall at a variety of selectable frequencies and pressures. Through a series of repeating air pulses, the SmartVest helps to naturally loosen, thin, and propel mucus toward the major airways, making lungs less prone to respiratory infections.
Visit the SmartVest website to read more clinical data on the health benefits of the SmartVest Airway Clearance System, including its proven cost savings and ability to help patients manage their bronchiectasis symptoms. For more information, or to find out how to get your SmartVest Airway Clearance System, contact the Electromed support team today!
