Types Of Spirometers And How They Work

By Tracie Knight


Spirometry is a clinical process through which lung functions are measured, specifically speed and volume of air inhaled and exhaled. It is among pulmonary function tests done on patients with lung problems and it also goes by the phrase measuring of breath. The pieces of equipment used to do the process are called spirometers. Buyers have a wide range of devices to choose from because there are many models in the market today.

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.

These devices keep improving with the ever improving technology. Currently several models are in application in various sectors around the world. Among the main models are whole body plethymograph, fully electronic, tilt compensated, pneumotachometer, windmill-type, incentive, and peak flow type model. The most accurate model of all the models is whole body plethymograph, which gives high accuracy in values recorded. The high accuracy is partly because patients are enclosed in rooms during the exercise.

The pneumotachometer gauges the flow rate of air by employing a fine mesh. The pressure of inhaled or exhaled gases is detected as they flow over the fine mesh, allowing measurement of their rate of flow. Patients are allowed to breathe in fresh air as the process continues. That is an advantage that lacks in most 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 can measure forced vital capacity without use of water. In comparison to the water-tank type, it is more portable and lighter. Measurements recorded are broad and range from 1000ml to 7000ml. When taking measurements, the apparatus must be maintained in horizontal position because it contains rotating discs. Tilt-compensated model contains 3D sensing mechanics, which allow backward or forward positions when in 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.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment