From the Research
The Acapella device is also known as a positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy device or oscillatory positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) device in medical terminology. This handheld respiratory therapy tool helps patients clear mucus from their lungs by combining positive expiratory pressure with airway vibrations. When patients exhale through the device, it creates resistance and oscillations that help loosen secretions in the airways, making them easier to cough up and clear. The Acapella is commonly prescribed for patients with conditions like cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory conditions that cause excessive mucus production.
Key Features of the Acapella Device
- The device works by preventing airway collapse during exhalation while the vibrations help mobilize secretions from smaller airways toward larger ones where they can be more effectively cleared through coughing.
- Healthcare providers typically recommend using the Acapella 2-4 times daily for 10-20 breaths per session, followed by controlled coughing techniques to maximize secretion clearance.
- The performance characteristics of the Acapella device have been compared to other PEP devices, and it has been shown to have similar performance characteristics to other devices, but with some differences in terms of flow amplitude and frequency 1.
- The device has been shown to be effective in improving lung function and reducing symptoms in patients with respiratory conditions, and is a useful tool in the management of these conditions 2.
Clinical Use of the Acapella Device
- The Acapella device is a useful tool in the management of respiratory conditions such as cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and COPD.
- It is typically used in conjunction with other therapies, such as medications and physical therapy, to help manage symptoms and improve lung function.
- The device is easy to use and can be used in a variety of settings, including at home, in the hospital, or in a clinical setting.
- The Acapella device has been shown to be safe and effective in a variety of studies, and is a useful addition to the management of respiratory conditions 3, 4.