Restoration of lung volume using the Flutter VRP1 or breathing exercise

Abstract

A method of chest wall restriction imposed for 30 minutes demonstrated a mean (SD) decrease of 42 (14) per cent in forced vital capacity (FVC) during restrictor application. Following the application of chest wall restriction, 30 healthy subjects then underwent a 15 minute treatment with either Flutter VRP1 (Flutter) or breathing exercise with end-inspiratory hold (BE) after chest wall restriction release. Both Flutter and BE applied for 15 minutes immediately restored FVC to pre-restriction values. Tidal breathing control subjects demonstrated a clinically small but statistically significant decrease in FVC of 3 per cent (p<0.001). Visual analogue assessment of each treatment technique showed BE to be the subject- preferred technique for lung volume restoration. This study shows that in normal subjects, Flutter and BE are equally effective in restoring FVC and superior to tidal breathing.

Flutter valve improves respiratory mechanics and sputum production in patients with bronchiectasis

“…Bronchiectasis leads to a loss of normal airway structure, which, associated to reduced mucus clearance and mucus accumulation, can cause air trapping by airway collapse (Wagener and Headley, 2003). Flutter Valve™ increases alveolar and airway pressures, stabilizing the airways and improving the distribution of ventilation (Jones et al, 1997). In this way, the collapse of units during forced exhalation is avoided, allowing mucus mobilization from peripheral airways (Darbee et al, 2004).…”

“…Moreover, during both interventions, the patient was asked to exhale from total lung capacity. This thoracic expansion can also improve the cough effectiveness and mucus removal from pulmonary periphery owing to higher collateral ventilation (Jones et al, 1997).…”

Utility of vest high frequency chest wall oscillation device versus flutter device in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

“…A number of studies have obtained positive impact of Flutter, with an increase in the VC and FVC and a decrease in the RV, FRC and TLC, in patients with cystic fibrosis, COPD and others. [29][30][31][32][33][34][35] However, other studies with similar propose; demonstrate non-significant effect on PFT. [36][37][38][39] The controversial effects of Flutter device among the studies may be related to multifactor; firstly, the generation of oscillation and pressure are dependent on the expiratory flow and gravity forces.…”