Spirometry in young children: should computer-animation programs be used during testing?
V Gracchi1, M Boel, J van der Laag
1Dept of Paediatric Pulmonology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
The European Respiratory Journal
|May 27, 2003
Summary
Computer animation programs may hinder accurate lung function tests for children. While incentives improve some measures, these programs can decrease reproducibility and performance in maximal expiratory flow/volume (MEFV) curves.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Respiratory Physiology
- Medical Informatics
Background:
- Maximal expiratory flow/volume (MEFV) curves are crucial for assessing pediatric lung function.
- Computer-animation programs are increasingly used as incentives for pediatric pulmonary function testing.
- The impact of these digital tools on the quality of MEFV maneuvers requires thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the reproducibility and maximal performance of MEFV maneuvers in children aged 4-8 years.
- To compare the effectiveness of two computer-animation programs ('candles' and 'balloon') as incentives.
- To determine if these programs enhance or detract from test quality.
Main Methods:
- Eighty-eight children (4-8 years) were randomized to 'candles' or 'balloon' programs.
- Children performed MEFV maneuvers with and without animation incentives, in random order.
- Reproducibility and performance metrics (FVC, FEV1, PEF) were assessed against international criteria.
Main Results:
- Computer animation programs led to a lower proportion of children meeting FVC and FEV1 reproducibility criteria.
- Incentives improved peak expiratory flow (PEF) reproducibility and performance.
- Forced vital capacity (FVC) performance significantly decreased in 6-8-year-olds using animation programs.
Conclusions:
- While animation programs can be engaging, their routine use during MEFV testing is not recommended due to potential negative effects on maneuver quality.
- Short pre-test training with animation programs might be beneficial.
- Experienced technicians are crucial for optimizing pediatric pulmonary function test results.
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