Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 28, 2025

Evaluating Regional Pulmonary Deposition using Patient-Specific 3D Printed Lung Models
Published on: November 11, 2020
Determinants of Suboptimal Peak Inspiratory Flow Rates among Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in
A O Arawomo1, G E Erhabor1, M O Tanimowo2
1Department of Medicine, Obafemi Awolowo University/Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
Background:
Inhalational therapy is the cornerstone in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Patients' peak inspiratory flow impacts effective dry powder inhaler (DPI) delivery and management outcome.
Objective:
This study assessed peak inspiratory flow rates (PIFR) and determined the factors associated with suboptimal inspiratory flow rates among COPD patients.
Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 60 participants (30 stable COPD patients and 30 age-and-sex matched controls). Socio-demographic characteristics was obtained and spirometry was done for all participants. PIFR assessment was done using the In-Check Dial Meter and was categorized as suboptimal (< 60L/min) or optimal (≥ 60L/min). P values less than 0.05 were taken as statistically significant.
Results:
Mean age of the COPD patients and healthy controls were both 67.8 ± 10.3 years, with 53.3% being females. Post-bronchodilation FEV 1/FVC% for COPD patients was 54.15 ± 11.27%. The mean PIFR among COPD patients was significantly lower than that of healthy controls, in all DPIs simulated, especially for Clickhaler (46.2±13.4 vs 60.5±11.4L/min, p<0.001). A significant proportion of COPD patients had suboptimal PIFR, in the simulated resistances against Clickhaler and Turbuhaler (70% vs 80%; p<0.001). Older age, shorter height and low BMI were associated with suboptimal PIFR among COPD patients. However, independent predictors of suboptimal PIFR were BMI, PEFR, FEV1% and FVC%.
Conclusion:
Suboptimal PIFR was found in a significant number of COPD patients when compared with healthy respondents. Routine assessment using In-Check Dial meter should be done to determine the suitability of dry powder inhalers for patients with COPD.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-IV: Assessement and Diagnostic Studies
Medical History
Factors Affecting Pulmonary Ventilation
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...
Respiratory Volumes and Capacities I
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-I: Introduction
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection
Chest Configuration
The chest configuration...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...

