Negative impact of the noseclip on high-frequency respiratory impedance measurements

Abstract The noseclip is conventionally used in lung function testing to prevent leakage via the nasal compartments. However, some subjects exhibit a velum-opening reflex which may affect results. We performed forced oscillation measurements at frequencies (8–256 Hz) that include the first antireson...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Respiratory physiology & neurobiology 2009-01, Vol.165 (1), p.115-118
Main Authors: Thamrin, Cindy, Albu, Gergely, Sly, Peter D, Hantos, Zoltán
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Airway Resistance - physiology
Antiresonance
Biological and medical sciences
Electric Impedance - adverse effects
Forced Expiratory Volume - physiology
Forced oscillation technique
Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology
Humans
Lung function tests
Male
Medical Education
Middle Aged
Nasal Cavity - physiology
Noseclip
Pulmonary/Respiratory
Respiratory Function Tests - instrumentation
Respiratory Function Tests - methods
Respiratory Mechanics - physiology
Vertebrates: respiratory system
Young Adult
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Summary:Abstract The noseclip is conventionally used in lung function testing to prevent leakage via the nasal compartments. However, some subjects exhibit a velum-opening reflex which may affect results. We performed forced oscillation measurements at frequencies (8–256 Hz) that include the first antiresonance, comparing the noseclip with a cotton wool nose plug to eliminate upper airway contribution. Three sets of measurements were made in 18 adults: with and without noseclip, and with cotton wool. Velum opening during noseclip measurements was monitored using a nasal pressure transducer. A significantly greater proportion of subjects produced a characteristic distortion to the first antiresonance with the noseclip than with either no noseclip or with cotton wool. Distortion of the spectrum coincided with the transmission of oscillations into the nasal cavity. Thus, the noseclip cannot be used in high-frequency forced oscillation measurements because of the velum reflex. The cotton wool plug offers a simple alternative. This effect has unknown impact in other lung function tests.
ISSN:1569-9048
1878-1519
DOI:10.1016/j.resp.2008.10.014