Cardio Adjustable Thoracic Support (C.A.T.S) Vest
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Cardithoracic Unisex Vest
The unisex C.A.T.S Vest, designed in the UK by clinical experts, uses advanced technologies and high-quality fabrics to enhance patient comfort and aid rehabilitation after cardiothoracic surgery.
Available in 20cm and 26cm depths, the adjustable vest suits most patients. It is intended for use after cardiac surgery with a closed central chest wound or minimally invasive wound, providing day and night comfort and support during recovery.
The vest should not be used on patients with delayed chest closure, surgical wound dehiscence, surgical site infection (with or without vacuum-assisted closure), chest instability, wire fractures, or those unable to communicate or with conditions affecting their skin, bone, or respiratory tract.
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Cardiothoracic Riser Pads - Pair
Optional Riser Pads that can be easily attached on the inside of the C.A.T.S Vest for male patients. Female patients do not require Rider Pads.
Riser pads are placed either side of the wound for extra comfort and air circulation.
Come as a pair.
How does the C.A.T.S Vest work?
Interested in the vest, how to measure fit and appropriately care for the garment?
Take a few mins to watch the video below!
Trusted and Used By
Feedback
“I used this belt after my heart surgery and it was truly amazing. Before this was recommended to me, during the nights the feeling, the sound of your ribs clicking was very scary and tense but once I started using this it gave me a sense of safety and security. The paddings added an additional comfort and space between the belt and the stitching. It is very durable and easy to use and I would highly recommend this product to everyone”
Shokat, A. Patient Review.
“Excellent vest and well-designed. Gave me a sense of reassurance for security, protection and chest stability after my cardiothoracic operation”
Asia, K. Patient Review.
“Wore this C.A.T.S vest during my recovery period following my open-heart surgery. Easy to wear and very comfortable. It gave me the sense of security during my daily walks and regular movements - helping me with my posture supporting my chest, shoulders. High quality fabric & very easy aftercare. Highly recommend this great product. Thanks to CUI Wear”
Laks. Patient Review
"The feedback that surgeons, nurses and patients have given about the vests is great. They are easy to use and very efficient. We could not be happier with them."
Hospital Review, Cardiac Ward, NHS Kings College London.
"I was given this vest to help my recovery from open heart surgery. This product really did its job. I felt a sense of security. I knew my chest had been opened and I felt the vest gave me both a physical and psychological feeling of comfort knowing everything was being carefully supported”
“I know that wounds need to be kept closed to heal I know I had staples but it felt like the vest gave extra support stopping any movement or coughing from opening my wound. It felt comfortable and was easily put on. I really liked the mitten application idea. It was easy to get the correct pressure I wanted on my chest. It reduced my pain level to a certain extent. I did not like taking it off. I felt overall much more confident and comfortable while wearing the vest. My wife could also easily wash it in the home washing machine with no problem."
"I actually would have really not been happy going through open heart surgery without that vest and anybody going in for that operation should know about that vest because without it the whole experience would have been more painful, uncomfortable both physically and psychologically."
Cardiac Patient, NHS Royal Papworth Hospital
Size Guide No Riser Pads
Product is available in a 20cm or a 26cm depth, use code ‘CATS-20’ or code ‘CATS-26’ to order the size required.
Product Code
CATS-20-XS or CATS-26-XS
CATS-20-S or CATS-26-S
CATS-20-M or CATS-26-M
CATS-20-L or CATS-26-L
CATS-20-XL or CATS-26-XL
CATS-20-2XL or CATS-26-2XL
CATS-20-3XL or CATS-26-3XL
CATS-20-4XL or CATS-26-4XL
Size
Extra Small
Small
Medium
Large
Extra Large
2 Extra Large
3 Extra Large
4 Extra Large
Measurement Inches
32-36 inches
36-40 inches
40-44 inches
44-48 inches
48-52 inches
52-56 inches
56-60 inches
60-64 inches
Measurement CMS
80-92 cms
92-102 cms
102-112 cms
112-122 cms
122-132 cms
132-142 cms
142-152 cms
152-162 cms
Size Guide With Riser Pads
Product is available in a 20cm or a 26cm depth, use code ‘CATS-20’ or code ‘CATS-26’ to order the size required.
Product Code
CATS-20-XS or CATS-26-XS
CATS-20-S or CATS-26-S
CATS-20-M or CATS-26-M
CATS-20-L or CATS-26-L
CATS-20-XL or CATS-26-XL
CATS-20-2XL or CATS-26-2XL
CATS-20-3XL or CATS-26-3XL
CATS-20-4XL or CATS-26-4XL
Size
Extra Small
Small
Medium
Large
Extra Large
2 Extra Large
3 Extra Large
4 Extra Large
Measurement Inches
30-32 inches
32-36 inches
36-40 inches
40-44 inches
44-48 inches
48-52 inches
52-56 inches
56-60 inches
Measurement CMS
76-80 cms
80-92 cms
92-102 cms
102-112 cms
112-122 cms
122-132 cms
132-142 cms
142-152 cms
Features, Benefits and Care
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Sympathetic adjustment to fit various body shapes
Acts as a light splint to support rib cage/sternum
Seams and labels on the outside
Breathable fabric with sports mesh back panels
Adjustable shoulder straps and front opening
Unique utility pocket with exit hole for wires
Available in 20cm and 26cm depths and sizes XS-4XL
Optional riser pads Lifts vest away from incision and dressing
Environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing
Machine washable at 70°C
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Ensures optimal comfort and support
Aids recovery and mobility
Reduces friction on sensitive post-op skin
Enhances airflow and patient comfort
Facilitates easy access for wound inspection
Supports early mobilisation and device management
Size range ensures comfort is not compromised
Low carbon footprint, fully recyclable packaging
Hospital-grade durability and hygiene
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The C.A.T.S vest can be washed in a hospital laundry at a maximum of 70°C and tumble dried.
In a domestic setting it can also be washed under a normal setting of 40-60°C.
The garment can be hung and allowed to dry naturally which helps to ensure longer lasting performance. It can also be tumble dried.
We also suggest that VELCRO® brand fastenings are secured/closed during any wash cycle.
For best results we would also suggest garments are placed in a delicates bag although this is not necessary.