Does Addition of Oscillatory Positive Expiratory Pressure (OPEP) Device to a Chest Physiotherapy Program Provide Further Health Benefits in Children With Bronchiectasis?

Does Addition of Oscillatory Positive Expiratory Pressure (OPEP) Device to a Chest Physiotherapy Program Provide Further Health Benefits in Children With Bronchiectasis?

Oscillatory positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) devices such as Flutter®, Aerobika® or Shaker ® are commonly prescribed in the clinical practice for airway clearance in children with chronic lung diseases including bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, and primary ciliary dyskinesia. Health insurance companies may cover these devices in some countries; but this is not a common practice around the world. Therefore, many families have to purchase these devices themselves. Unfortunately, these devices are rather expensive especially in the developing countries and consequently, families become financially burdened. Aim of this study is to investigate whether the addition of OPEP devices to a comprehensive chest physiotherapy program provide additional benefits on pulmonary function and exercise capacity in children with bronchiectasis. Results of this study may help better interpreting the cost-effectiveness of these devices.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of bronchiectasis

Exclusion Criteria:

• Hospitalization history during past month
• Diagnosis of any other chronic childhood diseases such as cerebral palsy or neuromuscular diseases which may impede exercise tolerance