Aerobika - Model OPEP -Oscillating Positive Expiratory Pressure Device
The AEROBIKA* Oscillating Positive Expiratory Pressure (OPEP) device is a drug-free and easy to use device that can help clear excess mucus in the airways and improve breathing.1 The AEROBIKA* device has an innovative pressure-oscillation mechanism that creates positive pressure pulses when a patient exhales. The positive pressure created can assist with opening weak or collapsed airways.1 The AEROBIKA* device also produces vibrations in the airways that can help to thin and loosen mucus, naturally moving it to the upper airways where it can be coughed out easily.2 The AEROBIKA* device can be used to manage respiratory conditions such as COPD, Bronchiectasis, and Cystic Fibrosis.
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Contraindications
The use of the device is not recommended for the following conditions: Patients unable to tolerate the increased work of breathing, Intracranial pressure (ICP) > 20 mm Hg, Hemodynamic instability (blood pressure instability), Recent facial, oral, or skull surgery or trauma, Acute sinusitis, Epistaxis (bleeding nose), Esophageal surgery, Nausea, Active hemoptysis (bleeding from lungs), Untreated pneumothorax (untreated collapsed lung), Known or suspected tympanic membrane rupture or other middle ear pathology
- Drug free, natural airway clearance
- Easy to use, clean and disinfect
- Can be used in multiple positions
- Compatible with nebulizer therapy
- Five resistance settings to adjust to each patient’s expiratory capacity
- Backed by clinical evidence
- Not Made or Manufactured with BPA, Natural Rubber Latex, Phthalates, Lead, or PVC
COPD Exacerbations
After a COPD exacerbation (flare-up), patient lungs may be weakened putting them at risk of another flare-up. According to Canadian data, 1 in 5 patients hospitalized for a COPD exacerbation require re-hospitalization within 30 days.3
Effectiveness Proven by Clinical Evidence
In a clinical study, using the AEROBIKA* OPEP device has been show to reduce COPD flare-ups by 28% within 30 days of use and significantly reduce the use of oral corticosteroids and antibiotics1a.
In the image of the lungs, the teal colour and intensity show areas with gas distribution. The yellow circles represent areas of greatest change after 3-4 weeks of AEROBIKA*device use.
Step 1
Carefully examine the device. If there is any visible dust or other debris inside, then clean the device. Replace immediately if it is damaged or has missing parts. Ensure the Resistance Indicator is set as prescribed by your healthcare professional. Gently press the two halves together to make sure the Attachment Tabs are engaged.
Step 2
Put the mouthpiece in mouth and close lips around it to ensure an effective seal. Make sure your hand does not block the exhalation path on the back of the device.
Step 3
Inhale through the device taking a deeper breath than normal, but do not totally fill your lungs. Hold your breath for 2–3 seconds before exhaling.
Step 4
Exhale actively, but not forcefully, through the device. Ideally, exhalation should last 3–4 times longer than inhalation. Keep your cheeks flat and firm to maximize treatment effectiveness. Ensure you maintain a good seal on the mouthpiece for the duration of the treatment.
Note: If you are unable to exhale through the device, check the resistance setting or try cleaning the device thoroughly.
Step 5
Continue taking deep breaths and long exhalations for 10–20 breaths, or as instructed by your healthcare professional. After at least 10 breaths, perform 2–3 ‘huff’ coughs to clear your airways. Your healthcare professional will instruct you on the proper technique. For maximum efficacy, try to suppress coughing until the end of the treatment.
Repeat steps 5–7 for 10–20 minutes or as prescribed by your healthcare professional. The entire procedure should be performed at least twice a day on a regular basis, and increased to 3–4 times per day if you are producing a lot of mucus.
The goal is to keep your lungs clear and ventilatory capacity up. Continue with treatments on a regular basis even if you are bringing up just a little mucus.
Treatments should be conducted twice daily or as directed by your healthcare professional. Although the AEROBIKA* device is orientation independent, it is recommended that treatments be done in a comfortably seated position.