Novel hot-wire based spirometry is highly accurate at low flow rates

Abstract

Spirometry is the most commonly used pulmonary function test. The aim of this comparative study was to evaluate four commercially available spirometers with different measurement principles (turbine-, ultrasound-, differential pressure- and hot-wire anemometer). In particular, the measurement accuracy in breathing manoeuvres with low flow rates was investigated, which is highly relevant for paediatric use. Among the tested devices the hot-wire based spirometer showed the highest measurement accuracy at low flows whilst fully complying with the ATS/ERS standards.