Flutter (medical device)
Certain medical devices that can make it easier for patients with bronchial asthma , cystic fibrosis and other diseases to cough up secretions are known as flutter . Also, the term VRP ( v ario- r esistance- p ressure) is used.
These respiratory therapy devices consist of a mouthpiece and a metal ball that lies in a funnel and creates a resistance when you breathe out. During the exhalation phase, an oscillating counter pressure is generated in the bronchial system, which loosens the mucus and prevents the airways from collapsing. This will keep the bronchi open and make it easier to cough up.
If the airways are unstable, the mucus cannot be removed. Flutter - like other devices for independent breathing training, PEEP valves or the simple lip brake - are intended to reduce shortness of breath and the risk of infections and inflammations from bronchial mucus in the sense of pneumonia prophylaxis .
Individual evidence
- ↑ Vario-Resistance-Pressure (VRP1) device with "flutter valve" , last accessed on January 24, 2014.
- ^ Morrison L, Agnew J: Oscillating devices for airway clearance in people with cystic fibrosis . In: Cochrane Database Syst Rev . No. 1, 2009, p. CD006842. doi : 10.1002 / 14651858.CD006842.pub2 . PMID 19160305 .