The Breath project (Project Number: 2022-1-PL01-KA220-HED-000089283) has been Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author or authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Foundation for the Development of the Education System. Neither the European Union nor the entity providing the grant can be held responsible for them.

Positive expiratory pressure (PEP) devices

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Institution
Escola Superior de Saúde Atlântica (EIA, SA)
Institution Typology
University
Country
Portugal
Description
The PEP mask or mouthpiece contains a valve that increases the resistance to expiratory airflow. The individual repeats 12 to 15 consecutive breaths through the flow resistor, creating positive mid-expiratory pressures of 10 to 20 cm H₂O in the airways.
Disease
Cystic Fibrosis
Activity level
Medium
Activity Typology
Rehabilitation section-based activities, Home-based activities
Motivation Tools
Not available
Innovation
The theoretical benefit of PEP therapy lies in its ability to increase and promote mucus clearance through one or more mechanisms: prevention of small airway collapse by placing stents in the airways; increased lung recruitment distal to retained secretions through collateral ventilation; temporary increase in functional residual capacity.
Evaluation System
In a comparative study between autogenous drainage and PEP, it was found that sputum production was lower in autogenous drainage and higher in PEP.
Assessment
PEP helps to effectively release secretions.
References
Ward, N., Ward, B., Stiller, K., Kenyon, A., & Holland, A. E. (2022). Development of a device to measure adherence and pressure characteristics of positive expiratory pressure therapies used by adults with cystic fibrosis. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, 38(10), 1469-1477. doi.org/10.1080/09593985.2020.1858465" target="_blank">doi.org/10.1080/09593985.2020.1858465" target="_blank">doi.org/10.1080/09593985.2020.1858465


Demchuk, A. M., & Chatburn, R. L. (2021). Performance characteristics of positive expiratory pressure devices. Respiratory Care, 66(3), 482-493. doi.org/10.4187/respcare.08150" target="_blank">doi.org/10.4187/respcare.08150" target="_blank">doi.org/10.4187/respcare.08150


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Ricardo Sousa Mestre, Escola Superior de Saúde Atlântica - Portugal (PT)
Very helpful and interesting article.