Baxter International Inc. (NYSE:BAX), a global leader in medical technology, has launched its next-generation airway clearance system, the Vest Advanced Pulmonary Experience (APX) System, at the North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference. This innovative system is designed to support daily therapy for adults and children with chronic lung conditions that involve mucus retention. While it retains the trusted airflow technology of its predecessor, the Vest APX System incorporates enhanced comfort and additional features based on feedback from both clinicians and patients.
“Many patients prescribed this therapy use it multiple times a day, every day,” said Jim O’Connell, president of Front Line Care at Baxter. “It was essential for us to create a solution that integrates seamlessly into a patient’s daily routine. The Vest APX System provides next-level comfort, ease of use, and portability while maintaining the performance that patients and caregivers rely on.”
Chronic lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis often lead to mucus blocking airways, which can trap bacteria and cause lung inflammation and infections. The Vest APX System employs High Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation (HFCWO) technology to help dislodge mucus from the bronchial walls, moving secretions from smaller to larger airways for effective clearance.
Baxter expanded into the non-invasive respiratory health sector with its acquisition of Hillrom in December 2021. Hillrom has been a pioneer in airway clearance, with its HFCWO technology proving to be a safe and effective solution for nearly 200,000 patients over the last 35 years and tested in over 60 clinical studies.
Key features of the Vest APX System include:
- Enhanced Comfort: A streamlined, lightweight garment that allows freedom around the abdomen, made with a cooling wicking fabric and featuring a Velcro brand closure for the best fit.
- Unique Designs: A wider selection of colors and designs, including vibrant options for adults and playful styles for children.
- User-Friendly Operation: An intuitive touch screen interface for easy therapy initiation with a single button. The control unit is 19% smaller and 30% lighter than the previous model and comes with a carrying case.
Patients and care teams can also access ongoing support through the CARE Connex Program, which connects them with Baxter clinical experts throughout the care journey to address any questions.
Earlier this year, Baxter received FDA 510(k) clearance for the Vest APX System, which will be featured at the upcoming American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) annual meeting from October 6-9 and is set to be available for order this fall.
About Baxter’s Respiratory Health Business
Baxter’s respiratory health portfolio includes airway clearance and non-invasive ventilation products that assist patients with symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and other lung-compromising conditions. These innovative products are extensively utilized in both home and acute care settings.
About Baxter
Baxter has been a trusted provider for over 90 years, offering a wide array of diagnostic, critical care, kidney care, nutrition, hospital, and surgical products. With a presence in more than 100 countries, Baxter continues to advance transformative healthcare innovations that save and sustain lives, working closely with healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes.
