The vacuum bell is a medical device used in the treatment of Pectus excavatum
A 2006 study of 34 patients (31 male and 3 female), aged between 6-52 years, who used the bell for 1-18 months showed immediate improvements. The patients were followed up with clinical examination, photography and CT scans. After 3 months, 27 of the patients displayed an elevation of the sternum of more than 1.5cm, and after 12 months the sternum was lifted to a normal level within 5 of the patients. Studies showing long term improvements are currently lacking, but so far research appears promising.[2]
The rubber bell is placed onto the chest wall so that a seal is created, and a hand pump connected to the bell by an air tube is used to reduce pressure inside the bell to up to 15% below atmospheric pressure. The drop in pressure results in the sternum being lifted upwards and a temporary resolution of the deformity.[3]
Use of the bell is not advised if any of the following conditions are present in a patient:
Possible side effects from using the device include:
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