An understanding of the basis of findings reported in the studies of positive expiratory pressure technique assist physical therapists in planning and modifying mucus clearance program of their clients. This study was intended to ascertain the effectiveness of positive expiratory pressure technique over forced expiratory pressure technique in improving bronchial hygiene in moderate chronic bronchitis patients.
30 chronic bronchitis patients were divided into two groups (Group A and Group B) in a randomized controlled trail study comparing positive expiratory pressure technique using Flutter device over forced expiratory pressure technique. (each of 2 sessions per day for 15 minutes for 5 days weekly for totally 2 weeks.) Improvement in bronchial hygiene was assessed using peak expiratory flow meter, pulse oxy meter and modified Borg's scale.
At the end of 2nd week of intervention, significant improvement in bronchial hygiene was found with independent ‘t’ test at p< 0.05 in Group A when compared with Group B. There were significant changes in peak expiratory flow rate (with peak expiratory flow meter), O2 saturation (with pulse oxy meter) and dyspnea level (with modified Borg's scale) in Group A than Group B.
Positive expiratory pressure technique using flutter device eliminates mucus from the bronchial airway and thus improves bronchial hygiene in moderate chronic bronchitis patients. This study will be helpful for the physiotherapists to incorporate flutter device for improving bronchial hygiene in their patient care.
Moderate Chronic Bronchitis, positive expiratory pressure technique, Flutter device, forced
