Spirometry /PFT

Its a type of Lung Function test.
Wherein one has to blow in a pipe to assess the lung capacity , and lets us know defect, if any.

Performing a  Spirometry

Its is a standard test used to diagnose and also to monitor

  • COPD
  • Asthma
  • restrictive lung disease, such as Interstitial Lung disease
  • other disorders affecting lung function
  • Someone who has unexplained breathlessness , we ask a spirometry to determine whether lungs are at fault.
  • Early detection Screening of patients who likely to develop lung disease.
  • Assess the lung functions before a surgery to estimate the preoperative risk.

How to prepare for a spirometry test

Keep these tips in mind:

  • Wear loose clothing.
  • If you smoke, avoid smoking for at least 1 hour before the test.
  • If you drink alcohol, avoid consuming it for at least 4 hours before the test.
  • Avoid eating or drinking for at least 2 hours before the test.
  • Avoid heavy physical effort or exercise for at least 30 minutes before the test.
  • Check with your doctor whether you should avoid are any medications, such as inhalers, before the test, since they may interfere with the accuracy of the results.

How long does the test take?

A spirometry test usually takes about 15 minutes.  

In some cases when more in-depth tests are necessary. Add on tests to spirometry are advised in some cases. The tests’ name being DLCO (diffusion of lung for carbon monoxide test) , Residual volume by body box method.
Body Box method of Lung function test

Risks:

Other equipment pieces, such as the breathing valve and mouthpiece, may also transmit infection. It should be disinfected and replaced between patients.
Normal” results ? for a spirometry test vary from person to person. They’re based on your:
  • age
  • height
  • race
  • sex
We look at the flow volume loop and the values of Fev1 , FVC, FeV1/FVC to interpret the test. 
  • Hemodynamic instability.
  • Recent myocardial infarction or acute coronary syndrome
  • Respiratory infection, a recent pneumothorax or a pulmonary embolism.
  • A growing or large (>6 cm) aneurysm of the thoracic, abdominal aorta.
  • Intracranial hypertension
  • Retinal detachment.
  • Patients who cannot be instructed to use the device properly 
  • Conditions that make it difficult to hold the mouthpiece such as facial pain
  • Recent abdominal, thoracic, brain, eye, ear, nose or throat surgeries

Who cannot perform the test?