Frequently Asked Questions - Vacuum Bells & Pectus Excavatum

What is a Vacuum Bell?

Vacuum bell therapy works by placing a suction cup over the sunken area of the chest. The patient then uses a hand pump to suck the air out of the suction cup and create a vacuum. This will cause the chest wall to rise. Once the chest wall has risen, you can remove the hand pump and plug the end of the tubing to form a seal.

You can then leave the device in place for the amount of time recommended by your healthcare practitioner.

Will the Vacuum Bell fit me?

Our Vacuum Bells are 19cm in diameter, and fit most adolescents and adults. Worried it won't fit? Drop us a message on our contact page, and our friendly support team can help.

Are Vacuum Bells safe?

Vacuum Bells have been through numerous medical trials, and have been rigorously tested. Using a Vacuum Bell is completely safe, and are used by doctors and patients across the globe.

You can read academic studies about vacuum bells here:

https://academic.oup.com/ejcts/article/29/4/557/478894 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5056932/

https://www.jpedsurg.org/article/S0022-3468(18)30629-8/pdf

We're proud to say that we are one of the only stores that supply Vacuum Bells that are EN ISO 13485 certified medical devices. We have been certified by TÜV Rheinland, an internationally recognised testing body in Germany. When you buy from us, you can be assured you are only receiving the best. Read more about our certification here. 

Where can I buy a Vacuum Bell?

You can purchase a Vacuum Bell directly on our site. 

What currency are you selling in?

We process all orders in USD.

Do I get warranty?

We offer an exclusive 10 year warranty on ALL Pectus International Vacuum Bells. Read more about our warranty and refund policy here.

How do I use a Vacuum Bell?

  • Place the device on the chest. The centre of it should be on top of the deepest part of your Pectus Excavatum.
  • Push the device onto the chest to form a seal.
  • Use the hand pump to suck the air out of the device, creating a vacuum, until your chest wall rises.
  • Leave the device on your chest for the amount of time recommended by your health care provider.
  • Lift the device off of the chest when the time is up.

Can adults use Vacuum Bells?

Absolutely. Although the best results are seen when using a Vacuum Bell during puberty, adults will also benefit from Vacuum Bell treatment.