Visualizing respiratory therapy effects: An EIT-based assessment of lung physiology

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Physiology
• Respiratory Therapy Devices

Background:

• Incentive spirometry (IS) aids lung expansion, but its precise physiological effects are not fully understood.
• The low-cost Asepto syringe is explored as a potential alternative to traditional IS devices.
• This study investigates the comparative effects of IS with varying ball counts and the Asepto syringe on respiratory parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of an Asepto syringe versus incentive spirometers with different ball configurations in promoting lung expansion.
• To evaluate the impact of these devices on tidal volume, end-expiratory lung volume, ventilation distribution, and lung strain in healthy volunteers.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, randomized crossover pilot trial was conducted with healthy volunteers.
• Participants used both the Asepto syringe and incentive spirometers (1, 2, or 3 balls).
• Lung function was assessed using Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) to measure tidal volume, end-expiratory lung volume, and ventilation distribution.

Main Results:

• All devices significantly increased tidal volume compared to baseline; the 3-ball IS yielded the highest tidal volume.
• Incentive spirometers with 1 or 2 balls improved end-expiratory lung volume and adherence.
• All tested devices increased dorsal ventilation and lung strain, but strain levels remained below injury thresholds.

Conclusions:

• The Asepto syringe presents a viable, low-cost alternative to incentive spirometers for enhancing lung expansion in healthy individuals.
• One- and two-ball incentive spirometers demonstrated benefits in improving end-expiratory lung volume and patient adherence.
• Further investigation is warranted to determine the effectiveness of these devices in patients with lung diseases.