Results of active cycle of breathing techniques and conventional physiotherapy in mucociliary clearance in children with cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the present study is the comparison of the results of the appliance of two methods of respiratory physiotherapy; the active cycle of breathing techniques in drainage positions and the conventional physiotherapy, regarding their effects on mucociliary clearance in patients with cystic fibrosis.

Material-methods: Thirty-five children teenagers and adults with cystic fibrosis, 8-20 years of age, with mean Schwachman score 78,49 took part in the research. All patients had regular physiotherapeutic control and applied systematically physiotherapy. The same children received two methods of respiratory physiotherapy in a 3-month random order, when they came at the outpatients' department of the hospital for their regular check-up.

Results: The comparison of the results of the two methods did not show statistical significant difference in sputum quantity, whereas statistical significant difference was noticed in sputum quality after the application of active cycle of breathing techniques.

Conclusions: The application of the active cycle of breathing techniques contributes effectively in the sputum expectoration from the peripheral bronchopulmonary segments and enhances the mucociliary clearance in children with cystic fibrosis.

Keywords: active cycle of breathing techniques; conventional physiotherapy; cystic fibrosis; mucociliary clearance.

Figure 1.. Application of pressure and vibration from the physiotherapist

Figure 2.. Application of pressure and vibration from the child