The role of intermittent positive pressure breathing in respiratory physiotherapy

This article reviews the value and limitations of I.P.P.B. as opposed to other treatment methods available to the respiratory physiotherapist. In the treatment of patients with airways obstruction I.P.P.B. is presented as having a limited role. Alternative measures such as the use of simple nebulisation, relaxation therapy and manual methods to remove secretions are described as being preferable to I.P.P.B. in most cases. I.P.P.B. has some value in the early post-operative care of some patients undergoing surgery which results in limitation to spontaneous deep breathing postoperatively. However other methods, notably incentive spirometry should also be considered for these patients. In the treatment and prevention of respiratory complications associated with neuromuscular and skeletal disorders I.P.P.B. can play a significant role in counteracting the possible effects of hypoventilation. I.P.P.B. should be considered as one method among many which is available to the physiotherapist to assist in the treatment of respiratory complications associated with medical and surgical conditions.