Image: The Lung Flute mode of operation (Photo courtesy of Medical Acoustics).

A novel hand-held device employs sound-wave technology to break up mucus in the lungs of patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory congestive diseases.

Developed by researchers at the University of Buffalo (NY, USA), the Lung Flute is indicated for positive expiratory pressure therapy, which is an important part of Bronchial Hygiene Therapy (BHT). The device uses patented low-frequency acoustic wave technology for optimal secretion clearance. The patient exhales through a mouthpiece over a reed inside the horn of the Lung Flute; the resulting acoustic wave travels retrograde into the lower airways and lung parenchyma, producing a phase change in the viscous liquid, similar to changing gelatin into a liquid, thus increasing mucociliary clearance.

The Lung Flute, which can be used for a variety for congestive conditions, such as COPD, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, emphysema or other chronic respiratory ailments, is already distributed to hospitals in the United States, Asia, and Europe, and is undergoing a pilot market for distribution of the product through durable medical equipment (DME) providers for home use. Each disposable Lung Flute for home use is distributed with a six-month supply of reeds, a total of 14 reeds. The device is distributed by Medical Acoustics (Clarence, NY, USA), which has partnered with the University of Buffalo on research and development of the Lung Flute.

“According to the World Health Organization [WHO], COPD is the 4th leading cause of death worldwide and we believe the therapeutic Lung Flute offers a medical device that better addresses the needs of this large and growing patient population than current technologies,” said Terence Cryan, president of Medical Acoustics. “The Lung Flute is a safe, effective, low cost, and patient friendly method for patients with COPD to maintain their respiratory health through regular use. Our clinical trial results indicate that the Lung Flute has the potential to make a lasting positive impact on the quality of life of tens of millions of COPD sufferers worldwide.”

Guangzhou Jia Yu medical equipment Limited