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Finding consensus on the physiotherapy management of asymptomatic infants with cystic fibrosis

S A Prasad1, E Main, M E Dodd

  • 1Cystic Fibrosis Unit, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK. prasaa@gosh.nhs.uk

Pediatric Pulmonology
|January 25, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Expert consensus on physiotherapy for babies with cystic fibrosis (CF) found agreement on most management aspects. However, routine daily chest physiotherapy for asymptomatic infants remains debated, allowing flexible approaches.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Respiratory Physiotherapy
  • Cystic Fibrosis Management

Background:

  • Neonatal screening identifies babies with cystic fibrosis (CF) who often lack early respiratory symptoms.
  • The necessity of traditional daily chest physiotherapy for these asymptomatic infants is debated internationally.
  • Current evidence is lacking, and practical challenges prevent large-scale trials in the UK.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To establish expert consensus on physiotherapy management for infants diagnosed with CF via neonatal screening.
  • To address the uncertainty surrounding the role of chest physiotherapy in asymptomatic CF infants.

Main Methods:

  • A Delphi consensus method was employed, involving senior pediatric physiotherapists across the UK.
  • Experts reviewed and voted on 16 statements concerning physiotherapy for asymptomatic infants with CF.

Main Results:

  • High consensus (15/16 statements) was achieved among 25 participating physiotherapists.
  • Consensus failed on whether to routinely initiate daily chest physiotherapy for asymptomatic infants.
  • An amended statement allows flexibility in treatment initiation based on clinical judgment.

Conclusions:

  • Senior UK physiotherapists largely agree on managing infants with CF.
  • There is no consensus on the routine need for daily chest physiotherapy in asymptomatic CF infants.
  • The findings will inform national clinical guidelines for CF physiotherapy, allowing adapted practices.
Abstract

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