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. 2011 Dec;3(6):279-84.
doi: 10.4021/jocmr697w. Epub 2011 Nov 10.

Short-term effects of high-frequency chest compression and positive expiratory pressure in patients with cystic fibrosis

Valentina Fainardi  1 , Francesco Longo, Silvia Faverzani, Maria Candida Tripodi, Alfredo Chetta, Giovanna Pisi
Affiliations

Short-term effects of high-frequency chest compression and positive expiratory pressure in patients with cystic fibrosis

Valentina Fainardi et al. J Clin Med Res. 2011 Dec.

Abstract

Background: Cystic fibrosis patients require daily airway clearance therapies. The primary objective of this study was to compare the short-term efficacy of high-frequency chest compression and positive expiratory pressure mask on expectorated sputum, pulmonary function, and oxygen saturation in patients with CF hospitalized for an acute pulmonary exacerbation.

Methods: A controlled randomized cross-over trial with 24 hours between treatments was used. Thirty-four CF patients (26 ± 6.5 years) were included in the study. Before and 30 minutes after each treatment were recorded: pulmonary function testing, oxygen saturation, and perceived dyspnea. Preference for the two devices was assessed.

Results: No statistically significant difference between high-frequency chest compression and positive expiratory pressure mask was found in sputum production and in lung function testing. A reduction in SpO(2) was found after positive expiratory pressure mask (98 ± 1.0% versus 97 ± 1.2%; P < 0.001). Both treatments induced a statistically significant increase in Borg scale for dyspnea without differences between them. Patients reported greater satisfaction with positive expiratory pressure mask than with high-frequency chest compression (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: High-frequency chest compression and positive expiratory pressure mask have comparable short-term effects on expectorated sputum and lung function. Although positive expiratory pressure mask was associated with a lower SpO(2), it was better tolerated than high-frequency chest compression.

Keywords: Airway clearance therapies; High-frequency chest compression; Sputum; Cystic fibrosis.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Mean and individual values of sputum expectoration after PEP and HFCC in 34 CF patients.
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