SmartVest is the only respiratory vest on the market with published studies demonstrating improved outcomes in treating bronchiectasis.
BMC Pulmonary Medicine, a peer-reviewed medical journal, recently published a first-of-its-kind, independent study, analyzing the effectiveness of high frequency chest wall oscillation therapy (HFCWO) via the SmartVest Airway Clearance System in treating patients living with bronchiectasis.
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Results of the Study
- Significant reduction in bronchiectasis-related exacerbations requiring hospitalization.
- Reduction in antibiotic use to treat pulmonary infections.
- Stability of lung function, suggesting early initiation of HFCWO therapy may slow the otherwise normal progression of the disease.
Background of the Study
Sixty-five patients with radiographic and symptom-confirmed bronchiectasis were prescribed a treatment algorithm centered on early initiation of SmartVest Airway Clearance Therapy. The treatment algorithm included a combination of nebulized bronchodilators, an inhaled medication to help open the airways; mucolytics, a medicine used to help thin mucus; macrolide therapy (when appropriate), antibiotics to reduce infection; and SmartVest, a respiratory vest that delivers rapidly repeating pulses of air that gently squeeze and release the chest wall to help thin, loosen, and propel mucus toward the larger airways, where it can be more easily coughed out.
What This Means for Bronchiectasis Patients
Bronchiectasis is an irreversible chronic lung condition that causes a chronic cough that produces mucus and recurrent respiratory infections. What this study demonstrates is how bronchiectasis patients now have an effective solution to managing symptoms and stabilizing lung function for long-term care.
This first-of-its-kind independent study suggests early initiation of SmartVest therapy helps decrease severe exacerbations and antibiotic use. If you’re ready to take the first step to experiencing the benefits of airway clearance and improving your bronchiectasis symptoms, SmartVest can help!
How to Make SmartVest a Part of Your Treatment Plan
Bronchiectasis symptoms shouldn’t have to interfere with a patient’s quality of life. Request a SmartVest informational packet today to learn how to make SmartVest a part of your bronchiectasis management plan.
To learn more about this study and the effectiveness of SmartVest as part of a treatment algorithm, find the complete article here.