Introduction

Airway mucus obstruction is a key characteristic of chronic obstructive lung diseases. Airway clearance techniques (ACTs) are an essential component of the daily therapy. Synchrony medical developed a novel airway clearance system (LibAirtyTM) adaptive to patients? breathing cycle, designed based on the physiological principles of Autogenic Drainage (AD) via an inflatable vest.

Aim

This feasibility study aimed to assess safety, functionality, and effectiveness of the novel device compared to a high frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) and chest physiotherapy by a respiratory therapist (CPT), in patients with Bronchiectasis.

Methods

20 adult Bronchiectasis patients were enrolled. Subjects received between 3-5 of the following treatments, in different order: CPT, HFCWO, and LibAirty, in a stand-alone mode, while using a Nebulizer, and while using a BiPAP device.

Results

20 patients (7 Female, 13 Male; Mean age 44.6 years; 8 CF, 12 non-CF)

Mucus weights for LibAirty were 15.9±6.6g, 14.4±11.1g and 11.6±4.2g for the Nebulizer, BiPAP and standalone sessions, respectively. Results were not statistically different from CPT (15.9±11.1g), and in all four sessions statistically significant more mucus was produced compared to HFCWO (4. 5±3.3g)

No adverse events or clinically significant changes in PFT or vital signs were recorded. Patients expressed satisfaction and ease of use with the novel device.

Conclusions

This feasibility study showed a superior performance of a novel device when compared to HFCWO and equivalent performance to CPT by an experienced chest physiotherapist. The novel device might be used as an effective and simple home use ACT.