Features of Acapella Vibratory PEP Therapy System
- Allows inhalation and exhalation without removing from mouth
- Prolongs expiratory airflow to increase removal of secretions
- Allows use with mask or mouthpiece attachment
- Allows use with inline nebulizer system when fitted with tee adapter
- Color-coded units help customize treatment for each patient based on their clinical needs
- Frequency and flow resistance of Acapella breathing device can be adjusted by turning an adjustment dial
- Easier to tolerate than Chest Physical Therapy (CPT)
- Takes less than half the time of conventional CPT sessions
- Acapella Blue-DM <15 lpm for 3 seconds
- Acapella Green-DH >15 lpm for 3 seconds
- 22mm OD ambient end
- 22mm OD patient end
- Patented rocker mechanism
- Single patient use device
What to buy with PEP Therapy System
How does the Acapella Flutter Valve Therapy work?
Acapella by Smiths Medical directs exhaled air through an opening which is periodically closed by a pivoting cone. As air passes through the opening, the cone alternates between closing and opening the airflow path, this results in a vibrating pressure waveform. For most users, frequencies between 0-30 Hz are obtained while maintaining positive pressure throughout the exhalation process. This is referred to as vibratory PEP therapy.
As per the need, the user can customize the frequency of the vibrating pressure waves and the resistance of the opening changes by adjusting the dial.
When to use Acapella Respiratory Device?
- Acapella is intended for use as a single patient use device that provides Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) Therapy for patients who have Cystic Fibrosis, COPD, asthma, and lung diseases with secretory problems, and patients with atelectasis.
- It may also be used simultaneously with nebulized aerosol drug delivery.
- Green: Acapella DH is recommended for patients able to maintain an expiratory flow of 15 liters per minute or greater for 3 seconds.
- Blue: Acapella DM is recommended for patients capable of less than 15 liters per minute for 3 seconds.
Contraindications of PEP Therapy
Although no absolute contraindications to the use of PEP Therapy have been reported, the following should be carefully evaluated before a decision is made to initiate therapy:
- Inability to tolerate increased work of breathing
- Known or suspected tympanic membrane rupture or other middle ear pathology
- Hemodynamic instability
- Intracranial pressure (ICP) > 20 mm Hg
- Acute sinusitis
- Recent facial, oral, or skull surgery or trauma
- Epistaxis
- Esophageal surgery
- Active hemoptysis
- Untreated pneumothorax
- Nausea
How to use Acapella Breathing Device?
Acapella Respiratory Device Initial Settings
- If this is the first use of Acapella DM & DH Vibratory PEP Therapy System, ensure that the frequency adjustment dial is turned counterclockwise to the lowest frequency-resistance setting.
- Instruct the patient to relax while performing diaphragmatic breathing and inspiring a volume of air larger than normal tidal volume (but not to total lung capacity).
- Direct the patient to exhale to functional residual capacity (FRC) actively, but not forcefully through the device.
- The patient should be able to exhale for 3-4 seconds while the device vibrates. If the patient cannot maintain an exhalation for this length of time, adjust the dial clockwise. The clockwise adjustment increases the resistance of the vibrating orifice, which will allow the patient to exhale at a lower flow-rate.
- Selection of the proper resistance range produces the desired inspiratory to expiratory (I: E) ratio of 1:3 to 1:4.
- Note: If the desired resistance and I:E ratio cannot be achieved, consider the use of an Acapella device designed for alternate flow ranges.
- Once the proper range has been identified, the patient may be instructed to exhale harder or softer, or dial adjustments may be made to optimize the response the user feels from the vibratory pressure.
- Several uses may be needed to ensure that the individual patient needs are being met.
Using Acapella Vibratory Pep System
- Ensure the adjustment dial is set to the correct range as identified by the clinician.
- Sit with elbows resting comfortably on the table.
- Place mouthpiece lightly in the mouth.
- Be sure to maintain a tight seal on the mouthpiece during exhalation.
- The clinician may recommend the use of a nose clip if necessary.
- If using a mask, apply the mask tightly but comfortably over the nose and mouth.
- Breathe from the diaphragm, as directed by a clinician, taking in a larger than normal breath, but not filling lungs to capacity.
- Hold your breath for 2-3 seconds.
- Exhale actively, but not forcefully, through the device. Exhalation should last approximately 3 to 4 times longer than inhalation.
- Perform 10-20 PEP breaths as recommended by the clinician. Remove the mouthpiece and perform 2-3 huff coughs to raise secretions as needed. The clinician may direct on proper cough technique.
- Repeat steps 2 to 7 as prescribed.
How to clean?
As needed, detach the mouthpiece then soak the parts in warm soapy water, rinse, and dry. Drain the device by placing the unit with the mouthpiece end downward, or by resting the unit on its side.
Acapella Vibratory PEP Therapy System User Guide
