Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent and progressive condition characterized by persistent airflow limitation and chronic respiratory symptoms. Among the many approaches to managing COPD, airway clearance techniques (ACTs) play a pivotal role in improving pulmonary function, reducing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life. So, this study aimed to investigate the comparative efficacy of two ACT devices-the Acapella® and the Lung Flute®- on improving pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and quality of life in COPD patients.

The Acapella® and the Lung Flute®. Both devices utilize distinct mechanisms to facilitate mucus clearance and improve lung function. The Acapella® combines positive expiratory pressure (PEP) with oscillatory vibration, aiding in the loosening and mobilization of mucus . On the other hand, the Lung Flute® generates low-frequency sound waves through patient exhalation, stimulating mucus movement from the peripheral to central airways . While both devices have demonstrated efficacy in previous studies, there is limited comparative research evaluating their impact in COPD patients.

A controlled randomized study having 70 individuals with COPD was conducted. Before the treatment began, all participants signed a permission after being informed about the study's specifics and their rights as patients. The Ethics Committee Board of Cairo University's Faculty of Physical Therapy authorized this study (P.T.REC/012/002208). The research was done in accordance with the Helsinki 0 male COPD patients aged 40-60 years, recruited from Kasr Al Ainy Hospital, Cairo University. Participants were diagnosed with moderate to severe COPD and were randomly assigned into two groups: Group A received Acapella® therapy alongside standard chest physiotherapy, and Group B received Lung Flute® therapy with the same physiotherapy protocol. Both groups underwent interventions every other day for eight weeks. Outcomes were assessed using pulmonary function tests (PFTs), the six-minute walk test (6MWT), and the VQ11 quality-of-life questionnaire.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Moderate and mild severe COPD patients were selected according GOLD guidelines.

• All patients were diagnosed as COPD with chronic bronchitis for at least two years.
• All Patients were using their prescribed medications including Broncho-dilators and mucolytics.
• Patients ceased smoking 2 months before undergoing the study.
• Patients were selected of BMI between 25-34.9.

Exclusion Criteria:

• • History of osteoporosis, significant gastro-esophageal reflux, hiatus hernia.

  • Recent acute cardiac event (6 weeks) or congestive cardiac failure.
  • Any significant musculoskeletal disorders.
  • Presence of active hemoptysis.
  • Presence of malignant disease.
  • Patients undergoing exacerbations.
  • Patients of hospital admission in last 6 month.
  • Patients with cough, rhonchi, and expectoration in last 6 month.
  • Patients who undergo exertional desaturation of oxygen below 90% after 6MWT.
  • Patients who suffer from prolonged recovery time of HR for more than one minute after finishing 6MWT.
  • Prolonged recovery time of heart rate <1 min.
  • Patients who cannot walk.

males only