Basics About Different Kinds Of Spirometers

By Tracie Knight


Spirometry refer to a clinical exercise through which functions of the lung are gauged, specifically the velocity and volume of air breathed. It is also known by the phrase measuring of breath and it stands among PFTs, pulmonary function tests carried out on patients diagnosed with lung conditions. The apparatus used perform do the exercise are called spirometers. Customers have a variety of gadgets to pick from since there are numerous makes on the current market.

The work of these devices is to establish abnormalities in aeration patterns and air motion out and into lungs. The gadgets establish 2 kinds of abnormalities in aeration patterns. The 2 abnormalities in aeration patterns are obstructive and restrictive. To achieve their tasks, various makes use different measurement techniques. Among those techniques are, use of pressure and/or ultrasonic transducers or water gauges.

As technology continues to advance, so does these devices. Currently there are several models in use in different parts of the world. Some of major models include whole body plethymograph, pneumotachometer, peak flow type, windmill-type, incentive, fully electronic, and tilt compensated model. Whole body plethymograph is one of most accurate models, giving a very high level of accuracy in its readings. The person whose lungs are being assessed is enclosed in a small room.

Pneumotachometers gauge rate or flow of air by use of fine meshes. Pressure of breathed air is sensed and measured as the air flows over the fine meshes. This allows for its rate of flow to be measured too. As the procedure continues, the patients can inhale fresh air. This does not exist in other models.

Fully electronic model is a complete improvement of other models because it does not have fine meshes or moving components. Rate of air flow is measured using methods such as pressure difference and ultrasonic transudcers. Lack of moving components improves the accuracy of these models because there is no friction or resistance. The hygiene is also improved since air flow channels used are disposable after use.

Incentive models are the most commonly used models in most settings. They are meant to improve the breathing of a patient over a long time of usage. They are normally placed on a bench or a table next to a bed. The patient should inhale and exhale through the mouthpiece for a given number of times every hour as per the instructions of the doctor. The calibrations on the device indicate any improvements the patient is making over time.

Windmill-type model is able to gauge forced vital capacity without involving water. When compared to water-tank types, it has lower weight and higher portability. Measurements taken are wide and lie between 7000ml and 1000ml. When recording measurements, this apparatus must be held in horizontal position due to the presence of revolving discs. Tilt-compensated types contain 3D sensing mechanics that permit forward or backward positions during use.

The testing process is highly dependent on the cooperation of the patient. The values from one recording cannot be used because they may contain errors. That is the reason why the procedure is normally repeated at least three times. That is also the reason it cannot be used on small children who cannot follow instructions.




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