Immediate Effects of Acapella(®) on Dynamic Lung Compliance in Mechanically Ventilated Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Case Series

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: One potential complication of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is reduced dynamic compliance, saturation for peripheral oxygenation (SpO(2)) and increased sputum in patients that are mechanically ventilated. Airway clearance technique is the treatment given for patients on mechanically ventilator with ARDS. The purpose of the case series is to know the immediate effects of Acapella® on dynamic lung compliance (Cdyn) in subject with ARDS. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Patients who are on ventilator for more than 48hrs were included in the study. Readings for Cdyn, SpO(2) were noted at baseline, immediately post treatment, 10, 20, 30 and 60minutes. Pre and post treatment sputum volume was also noted. RESULTS: Five patients were included with age range of 25 to 75 years. Clinical improvement was seen immediately after treatment in Cdyn and SpO(2). There was not much change in sputum volume. CONCLUSION: Acapella(®) increased the dynamic compliance of lungs and sputum clearance in mechanically ventilated ARDS patients.