Abstract: A chest compression apparatus and method of use providing an air flow generator component, a pulse frequency control component having a fan blade valve for producing a wave form, a multi-port air chamber and a patient vest. A vest with a sizing feature is also disclosed. The apparatus can be used to apply sharp compression pulses to the thorax via the inflatable vest worn by the patient.

Abstract: A chest compression apparatus for use by patients with cystic fibrosis, the preferred apparatus including an air flow generator component, a pulse frequency control component having a fan blade valve for producing a sinusoidal wave form, an optional pressure control component, and a patient vest. The apparatus can be used to apply sharp compression pulses to the entire thorax via the inflatable vest worn by the patient. The optional modular nature of the present apparatus provides particular benefits in the manufacture and use of the present apparatus. The modular nature, in essence, provides even greater portability since one or more modules can be individually replaced or repaired as needed, thereby lessening the overall cost and inconvenience to the patient.

Abstract: A chest compression apparatus for use by patients with cystic fibrosis, the preferred apparatus including an air flow generator component, a pulse frequency control component having a fan blade valve for producing a sinusoidal wave form, an optional pressure control component, and a patient vest. The apparatus can be used to apply sharp compression pulses to the entire thorax via the inflatable vest worn by the patient. The optional modular nature of the present apparatus provides particular benefits in the manufacture and use of the present apparatus. The modular nature, in essence, provides even greater portability since one or more modules can be individually replaced or repaired as needed, thereby lessening the overall cost and inconvenience to the patient.

Abstract: A chest compression apparatus for use by patients with cystic fibrosis, the preferred apparatus including an air flow generator component, a pulse frequency control component having a fan blade valve for producing a sinusoidal wave form, an optional pressure control component, and a patient vest. The apparatus can be used to apply sharp compression pulses to the entire thorax via the inflatable vest worn by the patient. The optional modular nature of the present apparatus provides particular benefits in the manufacture and use of the present apparatus. The modular nature, in essence, provides even greater portability since one or more modules can be individually replaced or repaired as needed, thereby lessening the overall cost and inconvenience to the patient.

Abstract: A device and method for measuring critical portions of an individual's forced expiratory efforts. The device includes a series of preset negative pressure sensors attached to a sensor port located in a breathing tube of predetermined dimension. A patient blows through the breathing tube triggering the various sensors depending on the airflow rate. The time each of the sensors are activated is recorded. The recorded information can be used to determine various diagnostic parameters.

Abstract: A device and method for determining the concentration of an analyte, particularly a chloride ion, in a liquid sample are particularly useful to screen for cystic fibrosis in an individual. In a preferred embodiment, the device takes the form of a patch comprising an absorbent material sandwiched between two liquid-impermeable layers. Chloride ions in the liquid sample complex with a chloride-detecting agent dispersed throughout the absorbent material to form a visible precipitate, preferably silver chloride. A pH indicator is also dispersed throughout the absorbent material, allowing the position of the water front to be monitored thereby permitting calculation of chloride concentration from a partially filled patch.

Abstract: Oscillatory chest compression apparatus to aid in loosening and eliminating mucus from the lungs of a cystic fibrosis patient. The apparatus includes a mechanism for applying pressurized air to a bladder covering the chest of a person and a mechanism for venting pressurized air from the bladder. In addition, the apparatus includes a mechanism for supplying the air to the bladder in a pattern of pulses having high rise times like square waves. The application of the pressurized pulses and the pulse rate is controllable by the patient.

Abstract: Oscillatory chest compression apparatus to aid in loosening and eliminating mucus from the lungs of a cystic fibrosis patient. The apparatus includes a mechanism for applying pressurized air to a bladder covering the chest of a person and a mechanism for venting pressurized air from the bladder. In addition, the apparatus includes a mechanism for supplying the air to the bladder in a regular pattern of pulses. The application of the pressurized pulses and the pulse rate is controllable by the patient.