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Aerobika OPEP Device from the front
AB-Photo-Product-Side
Aerobika device at an angle
Aerobika OPEP Device from the back
Aerobika device in use
Aerobika OPEP Device in use by man, from the side
Aerobika OPEP Device in use by man, from the side

AEROBIKA* OPEP Device

For drug-free therapy or can be used with a nebulizer
Bronchiectasis
COPD
Cystic Fibrosis
Drug Free
Nebulized Medication

Why use this 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.

For more information, news, and reminders, sign up for: MyAEROBIKA* Program.

AEROBIKA* OPEP Device with Manometer designed for hospital use.

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

1. Svenningsen S, Paulin GA, Sheikh K, et al. Oscillatory Positive Expiratory Pressure in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. COPD. 2016;13(1):66-74.

2. Jean Bourbeau, R. Andrew McIvor, Hollie M. Devlin & Alan Kaplan (2019): Oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) device therapy in Canadian respiratory disease management: Review, care gaps and suggestion for use, Canadian Journal of Respiratory, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, DOI: 10.1080/24745332.2018.1558426

Currently this is not available for purchase through this website.

How does the AEROBIKA* OPEP Device Work?

  • 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

An Award-Winning Innovation in Drug-Free Airway Clearance Therapy

Aerobika* in Action

 

AEROBIKA* OPEP device utilizes oscillating pressure that provides intermittent resistance, creating positive pressure oscillations during patient exhalation to help remove excess mucus from the lungs, creating a fluttering feeling.


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.

Proven by clinical evidence.

1a. Adapted from Svenningsen S, Paulin GA, Sheikh K, et al. Oscillatory Positive Expiratory Pressure in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. COPD. 2016;13(1):66-74
 

3. Burudpakdee, C, Seetasith, A, Dunne, P, et al. A Real-World Study of 30-Day Exacerbation Outcomes in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Patients Managed with Aerobika OPEP. Pulmonary Therapy 2017;3(1):163-171

How to Use an AEROBIKA* OPEP Device

Follow the steps outlined below or download our full instructions

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Examine the device.

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.

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Put the mouthpiece in mouth and close lips around it to ensure an effective seal.

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.

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Inhale through the device taking a deeper breath than normal.

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.

Image
Exhale actively, but not forcefully, through the device.

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.

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Continue taking deep breaths and long exhalations for 10–20 breaths, or as instructed by your healthcare professional.

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.

How to use the AEROBIKA* device - Easy to follow instructions

How to use the AEROBIKA* device - Easy to follow instructions

For more videos, visit our YouTube Playlist

Detailed Instructions

For more additional detail, download our instructions on how to use your AEROBIKA* OPEP device.

 

Download

How to Clean an AEROBIKA* OPEP Device With Soap and Water

Follow the steps outlined below or download our full instructions

 

Image
aerobika device in water with soap

Step 1

Wash the four parts in a solution of tap water and liquid dish detergent, allowing the parts to soak for 15 minutes. Agitate gently

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washing aerobika opep device

Step 2

Rinse with tap water.

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drying aerobika opep device in a sunny window

Step 3

To dry, shake the parts to remove any excess water. Allow parts to air dry thoroughly before you put the parts back together.

How to Clean an AEROBIKA* OPEP Device In a Dishwasher

Follow the steps outlined below or download our full instructions

Image
washing aerobika opep device in dishwasher basket

1. The four disassembled parts may be washed in a dishwasher by securing parts in a basket on the top rack. Wash in a normal wash cycle with dishwasher detergent, ensuring use of rinse aid

2. If excess water remains, shake the parts and allow to air dry thoroughly before reassembly

3. Washing with overly dirty dishes is not recommended

Complete Instructions for Use

For additional instructions on how to clean and care for your AEROBIKA* OPEP device, download our full Instructions for Use.

 

Download

Scientific and Performance Evidence

Trudell Medical International has an enviable history of strong leadership in creating innovative medical devices that enhance the quality of life for people of all ages - all backed by science and clinical evidence.


A Real-World Study of 30-Day Exacerbation Outcomes in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Patients Managed with Aerobika OPEP

At 30 days, 18.5% of subjects (n = 405) using the Aerobika OPEP vs. 25.7% of controls had a moderate-to-severe exacerbation (a 28% reduction). The mean per patient cost of moderate-to-severe exacerbations in the Aerobika OPEP group was significantly lower than controls ($2,975 vs. $6,065).

Download


Impact of Oscillating Positive Expiratory Pressure Device Use on Post-Discharge Hospitalizations: A Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing Patients with COPD or Chronic Bronchitis Using the Aerobika® and Acapella® Devices

Patients receiving the Aerobika OPEP device, compared to the Acapella device, had lower rates of subsequent severe disease exacerbation and all-cause inpatient admission. This suggests that Aerobika OPEP device may be a beneficial add-on to usual care and that OPEP devices may vary in clinical effectiveness.

Download


Oscillating Positive Expiratory Pressure in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

In COPD patients with chronic sputum production, PEQ and SGRQ scores, FVC and 6MWD improved post-oPEP. FEV1 and PEQ-ease-bringing-up-sputum improvements were related to improved ventilation providing mechanistic evidence to support OPEP use in COPD.

Download


Pulmonary rehabilitation for patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

As patients with COVID-19 having chronic pulmonary diseases often have excessive airway secretions, expiration exercises should be performed in addition to general airway clearance exercises to facilitate sputum excretion and reduce the exhaustion due to coughing. In addition, auxiliary techniques, such as the application of oscillatory positive expiratory pressure (OPEP), can be utilized.

Download


 

AEROBIKA* Study Summary

The AEROBIKA* Oscillating Positive Expiratory Pressure (OPEP) device is hand-held, easy-to-use, and drug-free. When the patient exhales through the device, intermittent resistance creates a unique pressure – oscillation dynamic, which expands the airways, helps move the mucus to the upper airways where it can be coughed out and may also aid in improved drug deposition.

Download Study Summary

 

line drawing of aerobika opep device

Request a Demo Kit

We can provide a complimentary demonstration kit for verified healthcare professionals.

Request a Kit

The AEROBIKA* Oscillating PEP device is an airway clearance therapy device used to mobilize excess lung secretions and improve breathing1. It can be used to manage respiratory conditions such as COPD, bronchiectasis and Cystic Fibrosis. You should consult your healthcare professional to see if it is a good fit for you.

1. Jean Bourbeau, R. Andrew McIvor, Hollie M. Devlin & Alan Kaplan (2019): Oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) device therapy in Canadian respiratory disease management: Review, care gaps and suggestion for use, Canadian Journal of Respiratory, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, DOI: 10.1080/24745332.2018.1558426

The AEROBIKA* Oscillating PEP 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

You should consult your healthcare professional to see if it is a good fit for you.

The AEROBIKA* OPEP device is drug-free and can be an add-on therapy to your existing medications. You should continue to take your prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare professional and consult your healthcare professional to see if it is a good fit for you.

It is recommended to use the device at least twice daily, once in the morning and once at night or as directed by your healthcare professional. Start with a few minutes, slowly moving up to 10 minutes at a time, as you are comfortable. The AEROBIKA* OPEP device is compact and portable and can easily go with you on your travels.

The device should be replaced after 12 months of use, or immediately if damaged.

The AEROBIKA* OPEP device may be used with a small volume nebulizer with a 22 mm adapter.  The AEROECLIPSE* XL BAN  is the most efficient option due to the breath actuated function.  Combined therapy should be used only if advised by a healthcare provider.

If you need to rest, that is not a problem.  The resistance setting can be reduced, or you can reduce the time of the treatment if you cannot complete 10 minutes of therapy. Take a break until you are ready to continue. If you have additional questions, please consult a healthcare professional

Most prefer to complete their treatment at a specific time in their morning and evening routine. For example, while watching a favourite TV show, or listening to the radio. 

Yes, you can use the AEROBIKA* OPEP device.

It is recommended to use AEROBIKA* OPEP device before taking medication but after the completion of other airway clearance therapy, as this may result in clearer airways and better drug deposition. You should consult your healthcare professional regarding the use of the device if you are taking medication.

The AEROBIKA* OPEP device may also be used with a small volume nebulizer with a 22 mm fitting. Your healthcare professional will advise which medication to use for combined treatments. Medications which open the airways (eg. albuterol) or help to thin mucus (eg. hypertonic saline) would be good choices to use with the AEROBIKA* OPEP device because they help to remove or thin the mucus in your lungs.

Caution: Medications to stay in the lungs, like antibiotics, should be taken with the nebulizer alone after completing a treatment with the AEROBIKA* device.

The AEROBIKA* OPEP device resistance setting should be set up by a healthcare professional. It is recommended to start at the middle of the resistance indicator.  The goal of using the device is to do so continuously for up to 10 minutes.  If this is comfortable and easy to do, then you have the correct resistance. If the exhalation is too easy or doesn’t seem to be loosening up any mucus, then adjust to the higher resistance.

diagram depicting how to change resistance setting on aerobika opep device

The resistance indicator slides to point to point to the numeric symbol on the device. The numeric symbol “1” is the lowest setting, the numeric symbol “5” is the highest resistance setting.

The Aerobika* OPEP device has 5 resistance settings that adjusts to each user’s capacity. Sliding to the left, towards 5, you experience greater resistances. Moving right, towards 1, lessens than resistance. It is recommended to set the Aerobika* device to resistance level 3, the middle resistance.

An important note with the resistance is that higher does not mean better. Treatment is maximized when the device is used with the resistance set to an appropriate level for the respective user.

diagram depicting how to change resistance setting on aerobika opep device

When you have excess mucus that builds-up in the lungs, it can result in symptoms. As you exhale through the device, the airways are opened. As the airways open, vibrations help thin and loosen mucus which can then be expelled.

  1. Although the AEROBIKA* Oscillating PEP device, a type of PEP device, is orientation independent, it is recommended that treatments be done in a comfortably seated position.
     
  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.
     
  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.
     
  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 your treatment.
     
  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 your treatment.
     
  6. Repeat steps 3–5 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.

See our full instructions

When you have COPD or Chronic Bronchitis, Cystic Fibrosis or Bronchiectasis excess mucus can build-up in the lungs resulting in symptoms. The Aerobika* Oscillating PEP device is an airway clearance therapy device used to mobilize excess lung secretions and improve breathing.

The AEROBIKA* OPEP device is DRUG-FREE and can be an add-on therapy to your existing medications. You should continue to take your prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare professional. You should consult your healthcare professional to see if it is a good fit for you.

We recommend using the device twice daily, once in the morning and once at night. Start a session lasting a couple of minutes. As your comfort level with the device improves, slowly increase the treatment duration to 10-20 minutes at a time.

The AEROBIKA* OPEP device is easy to clean and maintain.

  1. Disassemble the device in four parts: the mouthpiece, top case, bottom case and valve cartridge.
     
  2. Soak 15 minutes in soapy water and agitate gently.
     
  3. Rinse with clean water to remove soapy water and contaminants.
     
  4. Shake out the water and dry vertically.

The AEROBIKA* OPEP device can also be cleaned with a dishwasher. Place the device in a basket on the top rack of the dishwasher after disassembly. Full instructions can be found with the included instructions package.

diagram depicting how to clean aerobika opep device

Healthcare professionals should always use clinical judgment to select the appropriate cleaning and disinfecting method and frequency, based on patient needs. If necessary, clean the AEROBIKA* device once daily. Note: Proper and regular cleaning of the device is important for it to work correctly.

 

Reimbursement Information

How to be reimbursed for the cost of the AEROBIKA* OPEP Device?

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