Basic Information Related To Spirometers

By Myrtle Cash


Spirometer is the name given to the device that is used in order to check the volume of air expired and inspired via the human lungs. The apparatus records the air amount and the rate at which it is breathed in and out within a certain period of time. Spirometers also calculates respiration rates and is therefore referred to as a pressure transducer.

This kind of device is used for different purposes, including tests such as the Pulmonary Function Tests or PFTs. This exam is done as a preliminary step and is helpful in checking the overall health of the lungs. Certain diseases of the lungs can be ruled out through the results of the tests, including bronchitis, emphysema and asthma. Spirometers may also be applied to evaluate the effects of prescriptions and contaminants on this organ, as well as the effectiveness of various treatments.

The 1900s saw the first of these structures. The dry-bellowed wedge model was the first of these devices developed by Brodie T G in 1902. Before this development, many others had attempted to measure the volume of the lungs to no avail. The device made by Brodie has evolved in many ways since original development and now is extremely effective. Others who played a role in creation of this machine: Woestiijine K P, Compton S D and Dubois A B.

The spirometer comes in more than one model. The variation among the different versions is mostly in results. Incentive meter, peak flow, tilt-compensated, pneumotachometers, full electronic, windmill and whole-body plethysmograph are examples of different versions available on the market today.

Whole-body plethysmographs, compared to other such devices, are known for providing highly accurate results related to lung volume capacity. Pneumotachometers can detect differences in air pressure through use of fine mesh. The device is often used to measure flow rates of gas.

The full electronic kinds, as well as other electronic versions, do not include fine meshes or moving parts. However, they are able to compute the rate of airflow by way of channels. Extra moving parts, included meshes, are not needed. Likewise, they do not need to apply ultrasonic transducers or other techniques to measure airflow speed.

When it comes to measuring the ability of lungs to inhale and exhale, peak flow devices are employed. Incentive styles can be used to help repair certain functions of the lungs. Wind-mill models, also referred to as spiropet, are mostly used when measuring forced vital capacity. They do not utilize water and may take measurements between 1000 mL and 7000 mL. The tilt-compensated kind is more modern and can be used in a horizontal position while measurements are being taken.

Spirometers are units mostly employed in the medical field to measure function of human lungs and respiratory systems. Numerous models can be used and each one offers its own functions and results. Generally, structures are used to calculate the volume of air that lungs take in and let out. They are used for PFTs as well. Meters were first made in the early 1900s, but many attempts at testing lung capacity were made prior to development of this apparatus. The units used in modern times are very effective.




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