title: Home nebulisers. Comparative study of lung deposition by different models.
abstract: Home nebulisers are extensively used in the ambulatory treatment of chronic chest conditions. This study compares the intrapulmonary deposition of aerosol generated by 6 different models of electrical home nebuliser in healthy male volunteers. Deposition was quantified by measurement of the radio-activity over the right lung during nebulisation of 3 ml normal saline containing 2 mCi of technetium-99m pertechnetate. The 3 cheaper nebulisers studied (Simba, New Constellation and Ariette) take considerably longer to nebulise the same volume compared with the 3 more expensive nebulisers (Eolo, Pharmoneb and Pari) (> 20 minutes compared with < 5 minutes). With one exception, in every comparison between two models, intrapulmonary deposition at 3 minutes was significantly greater for the more expensive nebuliser. Mean deposition with the cheapest model was only one-fifteenth of the mean for the most expensive model. Large variations between different individuals on the same model were observed (up to 6-fold). Factors accounting for the inter-individual variation in deposition are considered and the correct method of use of nebulisers is emphasised. Multiple regression of forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) and height versus deposition with very similar nebulisers in 12 volunteers shows that these parameters can account for 69% of the inter-individual variation observed (r = 0.83). The clinical application of the findings is considered.
authors.affiliation: Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Natal, Durban.
authors.forename: A S
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Botha
authors.forename: A E
authors.initials: AE
authors.lastname: Houlder
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Wade
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001827:Body Height; D006801:Humans; D008168:Lung / Q000378:metabolism; D008297:Male; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers / Q000592:standards*; D010316:Particle Size; D011897:Random Allocation; D012044:Regression Analysis; D015656:Respiratory Mechanics; D012138:Respiratory Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D013997:Time Factors