Technical standards for pulmonary function tests: impulse oscillometry

Abstract

Impulse oscillometry (IOS) is a method for measuring respiratory impedance based on the forced oscillation technique (FOT). The IOS measurement requires only quiet tidal breathing, which is simple, suitable for a wide range of people and provides various respiratory physiological parameters. For promoting the standardization and clinical application of IOS measurement in China, based on the relevant research evidence and the updated technical standards by European Respiratory Society, this article provided a brief introduction to the background of IOS technique and the current situation of its clinical application in China, as well as the recommendations and interpretations on the indications and contraindications, device calibration, testing protocols, quality control requirements including acceptability and repeatability criteria, measurement parameters and graphs, testing results interpretation, references values and normal limits, report template, clinical application including assessment of airway patency, airway reversibility and responsiveness, small airway function and so on. It also offered recommendations on the relevant thresholds of diagnosis and evaluation.