Pseudorandom Noise Forced Oscillation Technique to Assess Lung Function in Prematurely Born Children

Abstract

The forced oscillation technique (FOT) is a non-volitional assessment that is used during tidal breathing. A variant of FOT uses a pseudorandom noise (PRN) signal which we postulated might have utility in assessing lung function in prematurely born children. We, therefore, undertook a systematic review to evaluate the evidence regarding PRN FOT. A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted by using the following databases: Medline, Embase, Web of Science and CINAHL. Observational studies, case series/reports and randomized-controlled trials were eligible for inclusion. Article abstracts and full texts were screened independently by two reviewers, with disagreements resolved by discussion or a third reviewer if necessary. Five studies were included (n = 587 preterm children). Three compared PRN FOT with spirometry, and two compare it to the interrupter technique. Most studies failed to report comprehensive methodology of the frequency spectra used to generate the PRN signal. There was evidence that poorer lung function, as assessed by PRN FOT, was associated with a greater burden of respiratory symptoms, but there was insufficient evidence to determine whether PRN FOT performed better than other lung-function tests. Detailed methodological documentation, in accordance with ERS guidance, is needed to assess the benefits of PRN FOT prior to routine clinical incorporation to assess prematurely born children.

Special Issue: Prematurity, Preterm-Born Adults, and Long-Term Effects on Children and Adults

“…BPD and viral infections further complicate the development of airways and impact lung function. In a review by Gunawardana et al, poorer lung function, as assessed using pseudorandom noise (PRN)-forced oscillation technique (FOT), was not associated with a more significant burden of respiratory symptoms [ 3 ]. Nevertheless, there was insufficient evidence to determine whether PRN FOT performed better than other lung function tests [ 3 ].…”

“…In a review by Gunawardana et al, poorer lung function, as assessed using pseudorandom noise (PRN)-forced oscillation technique (FOT), was not associated with a more significant burden of respiratory symptoms [ 3 ]. Nevertheless, there was insufficient evidence to determine whether PRN FOT performed better than other lung function tests [ 3 ]. This review article is a step in the right direction for further research into noninvasive and straightforward lung function testing in prematurely born children.…”