Due to world-wide shortages of masks that are suitable to be used with the LifeVac Airway Clearance Device, we have had to source masks from a variety of suppliers. While all the masks work equally well with the LifeVac you may notice small differences. Below we will describe the possible differences and their significance.
Coloured Ring
Some masks are supplied with a coloured ring around the inlet of the mask with 4 raised plastic pins on them. These rings are irrelevant in regard to the function and use of the LifeVac device and should be removed prior to emergency use. These rings are supplied with anaesthetics masks to denote the size and to provide an attachment for a strap that holds the mask in place during surgical procedures.
While we try to get a consistent supply of masks without rings, sometimes these rings will be supplied.
Some masks are supplied with a coloured ring around the inlet of the mask with 4 raised plastic pins on them. These rings are irrelevant in regard to the function and use of the LifeVac device and should be removed prior to emergency use. These rings are supplied with anaesthetics masks to denote the size and to provide an attachment for a strap that holds the mask in place during surgical procedures.
While we try to get a consistent supply of masks without rings, sometimes these rings will be supplied.
Valve on the Mask Cuff
Some masks have a one-way valve fitted to the cuff. This is fitted to some masks to inflate them if the cuff deflates over time. We try not to source this type of mask as from our experience the valve itself can be the reason for leaks. If we have supplied this type of mask we will also supply a syringe to refill the mask. Just remember that to give the best seal, the cuff should only be inflated to half-full. The valve is a one-way valve that opens when you push the end of the syringe into it, and closes automatically when you pull the syringe away.
Some masks have a one-way valve fitted to the cuff. This is fitted to some masks to inflate them if the cuff deflates over time. We try not to source this type of mask as from our experience the valve itself can be the reason for leaks. If we have supplied this type of mask we will also supply a syringe to refill the mask. Just remember that to give the best seal, the cuff should only be inflated to half-full. The valve is a one-way valve that opens when you push the end of the syringe into it, and closes automatically when you pull the syringe away.
Expiry Dates
Due to worldwide shortages of appropriate masks, we have had to use some masks with a shorter than usual expiry dates. In light of this we will extend our warrantee on mask for 3 years after the sale date.
The LifeVac device is designed to be durable and have an expected shelf life of over 5 years.