Optoelectronic plethysmography: reference values for breathing pattern

Abstract

Background: Breathing pattern compasses the chest wall motion and its time and volume components. Aims: The primary objective of this study was to establish reference values for breathing pattern measured by optoelectronic plethysmography (OEP) of healthy individuals during quiet breathing in seated position. The secondary aim was to evaluate the influence of gender on breathing pattern parameters. Methods: 168 individuals (61 males, 52±21 years old, with normal lung function) were assessed by OEP during quiet breathing. Data were presented as mean and standard deviation.The comparisons between genders were performed by Student t test for independent samples, and Mann-Whitney, according to the characteristic and/or variable distribution. The study was approved by Ethics Committees. Results: Table 1 shows the reference values for five main variables among others parameters evaluated in seated position. Conclusions: Reference values for breathing pattern using OEP during quiet breathing were created through a multicenter study. In addition, the effect of gender was also evaluated, and showed that women had a more thoracic pattern of breathing and lower tidal volume compared with men. Sponsor: CAPES Brazil