Airway clearance in bronchiectasis: a randomized crossover trial of active cycle of breathing techniques (incorporating postural drainage and vibration) versus test of incremental respiratory endurance

Chron Respir Dis. 2004;1(3):127-30. doi: 10.1191/1479972304cd034oa.

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of the test of incremental respiratory endurance (TIRE) with active cycle of breathing techniques (ACBT) [incorporating postural drainage (PD) and vibration] as methods of airway clearance in adults with bronchiectasis.

Design: A randomized crossover study in which a single session of ACBT (incorporating PD and vibration) was compared to a single session of TIRE was carried out in 20 patients (14 female) with stable, productive bronchiectasis.

Measurements: Weight of sputum (treatment plus 30 min) was the primary outcome measure recorded. Pre- and post-treatment measures of lung function and SpO2 were also recorded.

Results: All 20 patients were stable during the study period. Sputum weight expectorated during and 30 min post-ACBT (incorporating PD and vibration) treatment was significantly greater than the sputum weight expectorated during and 30 min post-TIRE treatment [mean difference 2.44 g (95% CI 0.43-4.45)].

Conclusion: ACBT (incorporating PD and vibration) is a more effective method of airway clearance in bronchiectasis than TIRE during single treatment sessions.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Bronchiectasis / metabolism
  • Bronchiectasis / therapy*
  • Chest Wall Oscillation / methods*
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Drainage, Postural / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sputum / metabolism
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vibration