| Role of Lung Flute in Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis in Hospitalized Chronic Bronchitis Patients |
| Paper ID : 1034-IPTCCU. (R1) |
| Authors |
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Radwa Nashaat Hassan *1, Nessrein Ghareeb Elnahas2, Reem Ibrahim Elkorashy2, Asmaa Mohammed sharabash3 1Researcher 2professor 3Assistant professor |
| Abstract |
| Background: Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis (AECB) is a significant consequence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), leading to increased hospitalization and impaired respiratory function. Mucus retention worsens airflow limitation, reducing oxygenation. A noninvasive Oscillatory Positive Expiratory Pressure (OPEP) device called the Lung Flute was developed to enhance respiratory outcomes and mucus removal. Aim: The purpose of this research was to assess how well the Lung Flute improved lung function, mucus clearance, and patient recovery in hospitalized AECB patients. Methods: A total of 60 AECB patients were split into two groups and subjected to a randomized controlled study (RCT). Group A received Lung Flute therapy with breathing exercises, while Group B performed breathing exercises only. Key outcomes included arterial blood gases (ABG), oxygen saturation (SpO₂), COPD Assessment Test (CAT) scores, hospitalization duration, and symptom relief. Statistical analysis compared pre- and post-intervention results. Result: Group A demonstrated considerable improvement in lung function and mucus clearance as compared to Group B. pH, PaO₂, SaO₂, and bicarbonate levels significantly increased (p < 0.001), while PaCO₂ levels decreased, reflecting better respiratory function. CAT and MMRC scores showed greater symptom improvement in Group A (p < 0.01). Group A had a considerably shorter hospital stay (8.07 ± 4.58 days) compared to Group B (14.30 ± 4.62 days, p = 0.001). Conclusion: The study demonstrated that integrating the Lung Flute into AECB management significantly enhances mucus clearance, improves lung function, and reduces hospital stays, making it an effective adjunct therapy. |
| Keywords |
| Lung Flute, AECB, Airway Clearance Therapy, OPEP, COPD. |
| Status: Accepted |