Vibrations Generated by Piezo Elements Allow for the Ultra-Fine Nebulization of Medications for Respiratory Diseases
Inhalation devices are used to treat chronic respiratory diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but also respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or pneumonia. The nebulizers atomize medication so finely that it can be inhaled very deeply into the lungs, therefore making the therapy of minor and severe lung diseases possible.
There are various nebulizer technologies available on the market—one of them is based on ultrasound, which is generated with piezo technology. For this purpose, a piezoceramic ring element with high-frequency signals is actuated in the non-audible ultrasonic range. The piezoelectric effect creates the smallest vibrations, which make a razor-thin metal membrane vibrate. This membrane is in the center of the piezoceramic ring. It is perforated by numerous microscopically small holes. Due to the effect of this vibration, a liquid or a medication on the bottom side of the membrane is converted into an aerosol on the top, which can then be inhaled.
There are numerous advantages from this piezo-driven aerosol generation for the precise dosing of medications. The high-quality medications are nebulized silently, without heating, and very efficiently, and can be administered in a more targeted manner. The sometimes complex protein structures of modern active ingredients are treated gently in the process. They are exposed to low shear forces during the nebulization, as they only pass through the membrane once. Therefore, these macromolecules retain their biological activity, enabling a new approach to innovative therapy concepts. For example, even the smallest amounts of high quality medication can be effectively administered in a short time. The risk of side effects in longer application phases is significantly reduced.
Compared to other technologies, the use of mesh nebulizers allow a larger portion of the medication to be inhaled more effectively and deeply into the lungs. The low energy requirement of the piezo component makes it possible to use mobile, battery-powered inhalers, which significantly improve the level of comfort for the patients. Piezo technology also masters the specific hygiene requirements that its use in medical technology requires: The aerosol generators are suitable for professional cleaning.
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