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Forced Oscillation Technique: a surrogate measure of lung function in neuromuscular disease patients?
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  • Esther Veldhoen,
  • Hans Roos,
  • Rolien Bekkema,
  • Ludo van der Pol,
  • Marcel Tinnevelt,
  • Laura Verweij-van den Oudenrijn,
  • Roelie Wösten-van Asperen,
  • Erik H.J. Hulzebos,
  • Camiel Wijngaarde,
  • Cornelis van der Ent
Esther Veldhoen
Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Hans Roos
Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital
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Rolien Bekkema
Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital
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Ludo van der Pol
UMC Utrecht Brain Center Rudolf Magnus
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Marcel Tinnevelt
Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital
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Laura Verweij-van den Oudenrijn
UMC Utrecht - Locatie WKZ
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Roelie Wösten-van Asperen
UMC Utrecht - Locatie WKZ
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Erik H.J. Hulzebos
University Medical Center Utrecht
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Camiel Wijngaarde
UMC Utrecht Brain Center Rudolf Magnus
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Cornelis van der Ent
UMC Utrecht - Locatie WKZ
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Abstract

Introduction Spirometry plays an important role in the assessment of possible respiratory failure in children with neuromuscular disorders (NMDs). However, obtaining reliable spirometry results is a major challenge. We studied the relation between Forced Oscillation Technique (FOT) and spirometry results. FOT is an easy, non-invasive method to measure respiratory mechanics, i.e. respiratory resistance R and respiratory reactance X. We hypothesized an increased resistance R and reduced reactance X in patients with more reduced lung function. Methods In this prospective single center study we included all children with NMDs able to perform spirometry. We consecutively measured respiratory resistance R and reactance X at 5, 11 and 19 Hz and (Forced) Vital Capacity, Peak Expiratory Flow. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated and regression curves were estimated. Results We included 148 patients, with a median age of 13 years (IQR 8-16). All correlation coefficients were statistically significant with p = 0.000. A negative correlation was found between resistance R and spirometry outcomes (spearman correlation coefficient (ρ) between -0.5 and -0.6). A positive correlation was found between reactance X (i.e. less negative outcomes) and spirometry outcomes (ρ between 0.4 and 0.6). Highest correlation was found at lower frequencies. Regression analysis showed a non-linear relation between FOT and spirometry results. Conclusion We found a non-linear relation between FOT and spirometry results with increased resistance R and reduced reactance X in patients with more restrictive lung function decline. Given the difficulties with performing spirometry, FOT may be a promising surrogate measure of lung function.
22 Dec 2021Submitted to Pediatric Pulmonology
24 Dec 2021Submission Checks Completed
24 Dec 2021Assigned to Editor
09 Jan 2022Reviewer(s) Assigned
03 Feb 2022Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
04 Feb 2022Editorial Decision: Revise Major
05 Apr 20221st Revision Received
09 Apr 2022Submission Checks Completed
09 Apr 2022Assigned to Editor
09 Apr 2022Reviewer(s) Assigned
09 Apr 2022Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
09 Apr 2022Editorial Decision: Accept