Cystic Fibrosis Therapy Device Uses Voice Coil Technology to Improve Mobility
In this episode of MedDevice by Design, Mark Drlik and Ariana Wilson share the story behind a novel cystic fibrosis therapy device that transformed a cumbersome hospital-grade system into a lightweight, wearable solution. The innovation journey begins with a prototype and ends with the Hillrom Monarch system—a commercially available device that enhances patient quality of life.
From Pneumatics to Portability
Traditional chest wall oscillation therapy for cystic fibrosis patients involves large pneumatic generators and bulky vests. While effective, these systems are noisy and restrict movement, making them challenging for home use. To address this, Mark and his team developed a new solution based on voice coil technology—a compact, precise, and quiet alternative.
Instead of relying on air-driven percussion, the redesigned device uses voice coils to deliver targeted chest wall oscillation. Patients can move freely while receiving therapy, improving both comfort and adherence.
How It Started: Prototype to Product
The project began when innovator Martin DeVlieger brought an early concept to StarFish Medical. The team refined the idea through engineering design, prototyping, and collaboration. Eventually, the technology was acquired by Hillrom and became the Monarch Airway Clearance System—now making a real impact in the lives of people with cystic fibrosis.
Why This Matters for MedTech
This episode highlights the importance of user-centered design in creating therapy devices that truly meet patient needs. It also underscores the value of strategic partnerships in bringing groundbreaking innovations to market.
Whether you’re an engineer, entrepreneur, or caregiver, this story offers insight into the development of cystic fibrosis therapy devices that combine technical performance with everyday usability.
Enjoying MedDevice by Design? Sign up to get new episodes sent to your inbox.
Related Resources
Accelerated aging in medical devices is a testing method used to estimate how a product will perform over time by exposing it to elevated conditions, most often heat. In simple terms, it is a way to simulate months or years of aging in a much shorter timeframe.
In a recent article for MD+DI, StarFish Medical Software Manager Sean Daniel explores how remote medical devices reliability is becoming a defining challenge as devices move beyond traditional clinical environments into homes, workplaces, and public settings.
This medical vs wellness example shows how device classification can directly change functionality. Even when hardware is similar, what the device is allowed to do can be very different.
Modern medical devices are no longer confined to hospital settings. Wearable cardiac monitors, home respiratory systems, and remote patient monitoring devices now operate within broader digital health networks.