Vacuum bell (medicine)

The vacuum bell is a medical device used in the treatment of Pectus excavatum, one of the most common, yet often undiagnosed chest wall deformities. The bell is mainly used to treat the cosmetic problems associated with the condition, as symptomatic cases of pectus excavatum are usually more severe, and may require surgery. It was invented by a German engineer named Klobe, and is sold in Europe online by Klobe himself, and in the US by Costa. As of yet there are no permanent results, but so far improvements in the condition seem promising.

Physiology
The vacuum bell is placed onto the chest wall with the sternum in the center (directly below the air pipe). Air is then removed from the cap using a hand pump until the pressure inside the bell is around 15% below that of the surrounding atmosphere. As a result of the decrease in pressure, the sternum is lifted upwards, resulting in a temporary resolution of the deformity. It is recommended that treatment takes place for at least two 30 minute periods a day, and that it is continued for a period of 12-15 months, after which the deformity may be permanently resolved.

Contraindications
Use of the bell is not advised if any of the following conditions are present in a patient:
 * Angiopathy
 * Aneurysm
 * Blood coagulation disorders (e.g. Haemophilia).
 * Disorders affecting bone firmness (e.g. Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Osteoporosis).

Side effects
In some patients the following side effects have been noted.
 * Haematoma
 * Backache
 * Drops of blood appearing on the skin
 * Local edema
 * Excoriation