Abstract
Aim
Positive expiratory pressure devices are frequently used for airway clearance in children with cystic fibrosis and tracheobronchomalacia. This study aimed to establish if electrical impedance tomography is a feasible measure to titrate pressures in non-sedated children.
Method
Ten children with cystic fibrosis and tracheobronchomalacia performed airway clearance using positive pressure devices whilst monitored with electrical impedance tomography. Feasibility was measured as tolerability and completion of the intervention; ease of administration and interpretation of software data; ability to determine differences in regional lung ventilation; and compatibility for use in the clinic. A pre-determined score of ≥70% was deemed successful for each measure and reported as means and ranges.
Results
Criterion met success for tolerability (98%; 86-100) and intervention completion (95%; 90-100). Regions of interest display (96%; 80-100) and software data analysis (96%; 90-100) allowed regional lung ventilation changes to be observed with different pressures. Ease of administration and compatibility for the clinic highlighted difficulties with automated software functionality and clinician time (66%; 10-100% and 75%; 0-100).
Conclusion
Use of electrical impedance tomography is feasible in non-sedated children with cystic fibrosis. It has potential as a tool for guiding positive pressure titration for airway clearance. Results and application to clinical practice require further study.