VibraPEP OscPEP Therapy

The VibraPEP by Curaplex is an oscillating positive expiratory pressure (PEP) device. Clinical evidence supports the use of oscillating positive expiratory pressure devices in both adults and paediatric patients by assisting in airway clearance, reducing hyperinflation, and promoting lung expansion. The PEP component or the process encourages airflow behind the secretions. The oscillation helps displace secretions from the airway walls. The repetitive use of this combination encourages the movement of mucus from the peripheral to the central airways, enabling it to be more easily cleared.

The VibraPEP is an oscillating expiratory pressure device with a unique design that differs from other devices with its flat silicon nonmechanical valve. Oscillation occurs when you blow through the curved cylindrical device. By rotating the position of the valve, you can change the resistance and ultimately change the pressure and waveform created. You can dial this resistance up or down depending on the patient’s needs. For example, a patient with a drier lung, perhaps someone suffering from atelectasis, would be dialled up to one; a patient with thicker tenacious secretions, such as in cystic fibrosis, may be dialled up to the maximum setting of five.

The VibraPEP is the only device on the market that offers both combined and dynamic PEP. At a lower setting, a combined PEP waveform is created, it increases and decreases in the same frequency. It is used for patients that require a permanent PEP with added pressure oscillation above the baseline. This helps keep the airways open and aids in the movement of secretions. When the VibraPEP is dialled to 3 or above, the waveform changes. This dynamic PEP’s waveform is created with the gradual rise in pressure followed by an asynchronous drop. Mucus cannot follow these fast-irregular movements. This assists with the detachment and removal of bronchial secretions.

The unique valve technology used in the VibraPEP enables you to combine aerosol and OPEP therapy simultaneously, if medically indicated. By simply unscrewing the mouthpiece of your VibraPEP and attaching a valve T adapter, you can then connect your nebuliser as normal. Combined therapies maximise the therapeutic benefits, and the unique valve system reduces rainout, maximising drug delivery.

The VibraPEP is easily cleaned by either placing in boiling water for 10 minutes, or on the top shelf of the dishwasher, and leaving it to air-dry overnight.

It is not hard to see why the VibraPEP is paving the way in positive expiratory pressure devices. Contact Midmed for further information.