What is a Vacuum Bell?

The vacuum bell is a medical device used for the treatment of pectus excavatum; an common chest defect (also known as funnel chest). The vacuum bell is typically used to treat cosmetic problems associated with the condition, as symptomatic cases of pectus excavatum; causing breathing or circulatory problems, are typically more severe, and will most likely require surgery.
The vacuum bell was invented by a German engineer named Klobe, and is sold online in Europe by Klobe himself. It is also possible to purchase a vacuum bell from an american manufacturer; Costa.
　

Differences between the Kolbe and Costa Vacuum Bell:

The Costa vacuum bell is black, whilst the Klobe vacuum bell is white, and both the vacuum bells have a slightly different positions for the suction pipe, but other than that they are identicle in design and materials used.
The two versions of Vacuum bell do, however, differ greatly in price; the Costa vacuum bell is priced at 450 USD, whilst the Klobe vacuum bell is more expensive; priced at 600 USD. Moreover, whilst the Costa Vacuum bell is available in the US and Europe, the Klobe vacuum Bell is only attainable in Europe. However, whilst it is only possible to get the Costa vacuum bell in one size; 10 inch vacuum bell intended for male adults 5'7 or taller, the Klobe vacuum bell comes in 5 different sizes:

The Large Vacuum Bell, diameter about 10", for male persons taller than approx. 5´ 7" (1.70 metres)

The Small Vacuum Bell, diameter about 7.5", for person taller than approx. 4´ 7" (1.40 metres)

The Small Vacuum Bell Type Bodybuilder for bodybuilders and special applications

The Mini Vacuum Bell, diameter about 6.3", for children taller than approx. 3´ 5" (1.04 metres)

The Vacuum Bell for women


Clinical Trials:

A study of 34 patients in 2006 (31 male and 3 female), aged between 6-52 years, who used the bell for 1-18 months showed immediate improvements. All of the patients recieved clinical examination, and CT scans . After 3 months, 27 of the patients displayed an elevation of the sternum of more than 1.5 cm, and after 12 months the sternum was lifted to a normal level within 5 of the patients. Studies showing long term improvements are currently unavailable, but up to this point, research appears promising.
For more great information on the Vaccum Bell and the treatment of Pectus Excavatum please visit www.whatispectusexcavatum.com.