Applications of oscillometry in clinical research and practice

Abstract

Oscillometry is gaining in clinical use and while there is an increased interest in the technique, there is paucity in the understanding of its possibilities and limitations. Oscillometry has seen extensive use in research over several decades, but only recently is the technique being adopted in clinical practice; hence, there is a need to educate the novel users. The goal of the mini symposium arranged in San Diego in 2018 was to discuss the principles of oscillometry, showcase some of the recent ongoing research using this technique and to demonstrate how oscillometry may be used in clinical practice. It was concluded that oscillometry has several advantages over spirometry, most notably, with novel data being shown, its sensitivity allowing early detection of small airways disease not possible with spirometry and it can be used in subjects who have difficulties performing forced maneuvers such as preschool children, the elderly and subjects with handicaps. The site of respiratory pathology can be reflected by the various parameters generated by oscillometry and thus help with both disease diagnosis and localization. While the interpretation of oscillometry parameters and translating them into meaningful pathological correlates is still evolving, it is likely that oscillometry will soon be at the forefront of both pulmonary clinical practice and research.