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Understanding Various Types Of Spirometers

By Tracie Knight


Spirometry is a medical procedure used to measure lung functions, specifically the volume and speed of the air one breathes in and out. It is one of pulmonary function tests and it is also referred to as measuring of breath. Spirometry is performed using pieces of equipment called spirometers. There are many version and models of these apparatus in the market, giving a buyer a wide range of options to choose from.

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.

These devices keep improving with the ever improving technology. Currently several models are in application in various sectors around the world. Among the main models are whole body plethymograph, fully electronic, tilt compensated, pneumotachometer, windmill-type, incentive, and peak flow type model. The most accurate model of all the models is whole body plethymograph, which gives high accuracy in values recorded. The high accuracy is partly because patients are enclosed in rooms during the exercise.

The pneumotachometer gauges the flow rate of air by employing a fine mesh. The pressure of inhaled or exhaled gases is detected as they flow over the fine mesh, allowing measurement of their rate of flow. Patients are allowed to breathe in fresh air as the process continues. That is an advantage that lacks in most other models.

Previous models have been improved to come up with the fully electronic version, which does not use moving parts or fine meshes. In fully improved models, techniques like ultrasonic transudcers and pressure difference are used to gauge rate of air flow. Accuracy is greatly improved because no friction due to resistance is experienced since no moving parts are present. Disposable air flow channels in the products improve hygiene.

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 can measure forced vital capacity without use of water. In comparison to the water-tank type, it is more portable and lighter. Measurements recorded are broad and range from 1000ml to 7000ml. When taking measurements, the apparatus must be maintained in horizontal position because it contains rotating discs. Tilt-compensated model contains 3D sensing mechanics, which allow backward or forward positions when in 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.




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