|
|
|
|
| LTRC Clinical Data |
| |
| PULMONARY FUNCTION TESTS |
| |
| Spirometry |
| |
| Spirometry is a valid, reproducible means of monitoring for change in the severity of the respiratory component in lung disease. When properly performed with maximum effort and attention to the details of calibration of the instrument, spirometry maneuvers are among the most reproducible of biomedical measures. In a highly trained, experienced subject a coefficient of variation of 2-3% is not unusual. Spirometry will be performed in a standardized manner in accordance with American Thoracic Society (ATS) guidelines, as described in the LTRC Manual of Operations. |
| |
| Spirometry is the timed-based measurement of the amount of air which can be forcefully exhaled from the lungs after a full inspiration. In the LTRC, this will refer to the measurement of the forced expiratory vital capacity (FVC) maneuver. In the forced expiratory vital capacity maneuver, a person inhales as big a breath as possible and then blows it out as fast and as long as possible until no more air can leave the lungs. The volume of air leaving the lungs is recorded continuously throughout the maneuver in order to allow calculation of important measures of lung function. Percent values will be calculated at the DCC using the Hankinson and Crapo reference equations. To view the complete set of data collected for spirometry, see Form 032 (Pulmonary Function Testing). |
| |
| Six-Minute Walk Test |
| |
| The six minute walk test is a timed walk involving a familiar activity and requiring minimal technical resources. It has been shown to be a reproducible objective indicator of functional performance. However, unlike cardiopulmonary exercise testing, it does not allow collection of basic physiologic data which may be useful in determining mechanisms of change or patient selection. It is important to emphasize that this is a test of maximum exercise performance; patients will be instructed and encouraged in a standard fashion to achieve maximal distance. Performance of this test will follow the recommendations of the American Thoracic Society (ATS) Statement for this test procedure. To view the complete set of data collected for the Six-Minute Walk, see Form 030 (Six Minute Walk Test). |
| |
| Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test |
| |
| Cardiopulmonary exercise (CPX) testing measures the integrated response of the pulmonary mechanics, gas exchange, cardiovascular, and peripheral muscle systems. Parameters derived from cardiopulmonary exercise testing have demonstrated predictive value with respect to survival independent of resting pulmonary function tests for patients with IPF or COPD. In addition, assessment of exercise gas exchange parameters associated with tissue and computed tomography parameters may provide insights into molecular-cellular-anatomic-physiologic translational relationships. To view the complete set of data collected for the CPX test and Gas Exchange, see Forms 031 (CPX) and 032 (PFT). |
| |
| All forms are available for viewing and printing here. |
|
