Compression Vest That Clears The Lungs In Clinical Trial In Israel

A vest-like device that helps people suffering from chronic lung disease to clear their airways is now in clinical trials in Israel. 

LibAirty, the device created by Synchrony Medical, emulates the manual compressions of a therapist. Anat Shani, CEO of the Or Yehuda-based company, says this clears twice as much sputum from the airways than similar products currently on the market.  

The device was developed at the National Cystic Fibrosis Center of Sheba Medical Center, Israel’s largest hospital. 

It is worn as a vest that contains inflatable sections to compress the chest, varying in location and strength according to the needs of the patient. 

The control unit that operates the device is attached to sensors within the vest in order to synchronize the system to the patient’s breathing. The entire device can be operated through an app on the patient’s cell phone or tablet. 

According to Shani, physicians recommend that people who need help to clear their airways have two treatments per day, each for half an hour. But the LibAirty vest, she says, requires just one treatment of 20 minutes per day. 

“A product that can get effective treatment in a shorter period of time is something that is much more bearable,” Shani tells NoCamels. 

“That’s a significant change in the approach to airway clearance.”

The device can also be used in conjunction with a nebulizer. And unlike other treatments, it can be used by the patient at home after a short training period, freeing them from the need to attend a clinic every day. 

“A more effective device with more effective treatment time is giving patients back their time and also reducing the overall burden of their condition,” she says. 

The trials are being conducted at Sheba and Shani hopes the device will soon be available for use in Israel and other countries.