Respiratory Therapy using the Flexineb System

Respiratory problems in horses are frequently the cause of poor sportive performances. The most frequently occurring lower respiratory tract disorders are Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO) also known as Heaves, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Inflammatory Airway Disease (IAD) and Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Haemorrhage (EIPH) also known as Bleeding. Typically, their treatment includes systemic administration of drugs using injections or the oral route, however administration via inhalation through horse nebuliser masks and inhalers (respiratory therapy) is now considered to be a viable alternative way to treat respiratory disorders (including breathing, airway or lung problems). Nortev’s Flexineb is an easy-to-use delivery device that produces a very fine mist of aerosolized drug or natural therapy solutions enabling this method of treatment for the horse.

Design

1.   Mask:

The Flexineb® mask is unique in its soft flexible shell construction and allows easy comfortable fitting to the horse. A one piece design with integrated seal also makes it very easy to clean and disinfect which is important to avoid cross contamination and infection.

2.   Medication Cup:

The medication cup converts liquid drugs into a very fine aerosol mist. It has an easy to use soft filler cap and is designed to be transparent so the user can see the liquid drug inside.

3.   Air Inlet Valve:

When the horse inhales, fresh air and the nebulised drug will be drawn from the aerosol chamber into the airways of the horse.

4.   Aerosol Chamber:

The aerosol chamber is designed to minimise contamination of nebulised drug so it is outside the Mask body. It is made intentionally transparent to enable visual feedback of aerosol generation and inhalation by the horse.

5.   Air Exit Valve & Air Vents:

The exit valve is specifically located at the bottom of the mask because it is close to the nostrils of the horse, and allows easy access when opening and closing the air vents by rotating the valve housing.

6.   Controller and Cable:

The controller is designed to run off a re-chargeable battery and has a one push button switch operation.