Types Of Spirometers And How They Work

By Tracie Knight


Spirometry is a clinical process through which lung functions are measured, specifically speed and volume of air inhaled and exhaled. It is among pulmonary function tests done on patients with lung problems and it also goes by the phrase measuring of breath. The pieces of equipment used to do the process are called spirometers. Buyers have a wide range of devices to choose from because there are many models in the market today.

The work of this equipment is to determine abnormal ventilation patterns and how air moves in and out of the lungs. This device is normally able to detect two kinds of abnormal ventilation patterns. The first abnormal pattern is restrictive while the second one is obstructive. Different device models use different measurement methods to achieve their functions. Some of most common methods include use of water gauge, ultrasonic, and pressure transducers.

As technology continues to advance, so does these devices. Currently there are several models in use in different parts of the world. Some of major models include whole body plethymograph, pneumotachometer, peak flow type, windmill-type, incentive, fully electronic, and tilt compensated model. Whole body plethymograph is one of most accurate models, giving a very high level of accuracy in its readings. The person whose lungs are being assessed is enclosed in a small room.

Pneumotachometers gauge rate or flow of air by use of fine meshes. Pressure of breathed air is sensed and measured as the air flows over the fine meshes. This allows for its rate of flow to be measured too. As the procedure continues, the patients can inhale fresh air. This does not exist in other models.

Fully electronic model is a complete improvement of other models because it does not have fine meshes or moving components. Rate of air flow is measured using methods such as pressure difference and ultrasonic transudcers. Lack of moving components improves the accuracy of these models because there is no friction or resistance. The hygiene is also improved since air flow channels used are disposable after use.

The incentive model is the most widely employed kind. These models are meant to improve air exchange in lungs when utilized for long a period. In health centers they are placed on tables or benches adjacent to beds when in use. Health officers instruct patients to breathe into the mouthpiece for a certain number of times every day. An improvement the patient observes in their inhalation and exhalation is seen on the calibrated sides of the apparatus.

Windmill-type model is able to gauge forced vital capacity without involving water. When compared to water-tank types, it has lower weight and higher portability. Measurements taken are wide and lie between 7000ml and 1000ml. When recording measurements, this apparatus must be held in horizontal position due to the presence of revolving discs. Tilt-compensated types contain 3D sensing mechanics that permit forward or backward positions during use.

The success of the testing is determined by cooperation given to the doctor by the patient. Normally values acquired from one test contain errors and are therefore not used as final results. Three repetitions must be done obtain final figures. Little children cannot understand directions cannot be tested because they cannot give correct figures.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment