P423 A low-cost positive expiratory pressure device for people with cystic fibrosis in developing countries

Abstract

Positive expiratory pressure (PEP) is a commonly used airway clearance technique, involving breathing against an expiratory pressure of 10 to 20 cmH2O. PEP temporarily increases functional residual capacity and allows an increased volume of air to accumulate behind airway obstructions, promoting the movement of secretions towards the large airways. The cost of PEP devices can prohibit their widespread use in developing countries, therefore a simple, low-cost PEP was designed and manufactured for this purpose, and pressure and flow were tested.