Physiotherapy
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Airflow distribution with manual hyperinflation as assessed through gamma camera imaging: a crossover randomised trial.
Manual hyperinflation (MHI) has been shown to improve lung compliance, reduce airway resistance, and enhance secretion removal and peak expiratory flow. The aims of this study were to investigate whether there is a difference in airflow distribution through patients' lungs when using the Laerdal and Mapleson-C circuits at a set level of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), and to establish whether differences in lung compliance and haemodynamic status exist when patients are treated with both these MHI circuits. ⋯ Airflow distribution through patients' lungs was similar when the Laerdal and Mapleson-C MHI circuits were compared using a set level of PEEP in the supine position.