Abstract
BackgroundThe Hexoskin is a smart shirt that can take continuous and objective measurements and could be part of a potential telemonitoring system.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of the calibrated Hexoskin in measuring tidal volumes (TVs) in comparison to spirometry during various tasks.MethodsIn a cross-sectional study, the TV of 15 healthy subjects was measured while performing seven tasks using spirometry and the Hexoskin. These tasks were performed during two sessions; between sessions, all equipment was removed. A one-time spirometer-based calibration per task was determined in session 1 and applied to the corresponding task in both sessions. Bland-Altman analysis was used to determine the agreement between TV that was measured with the Hexoskin and that measured with spirometry. A priori, we determined that the bias had to be less than ±5%, with limits of agreement (LOA) of less than ±15%. Lung volumes were measured and had to have LOA of less than ±0.150 L.ResultsIn the first session, all tasks had a median bias within the criteria (±0.6%). In the second session, biases were ±8.9%; only two tasks met the criteria. In both sessions, LOA were within the criteria in six out of seven tasks (±14.7%). LOA of lung volumes were greater than 0.150 L.ConclusionsThe Hexoskin was able to correctly measure TV in healthy subjects during various tasks. However, after reapplication of the equipment, calibration factors were not able to be reused to obtain results within the determined boundaries.Trial RegistrationNetherlands Trial Register NL6934; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/6934
Highlights
Various pulmonary diseases are characterized by exacerbations, which are defined as acute and subacute increases in respiratory symptoms beyond normal variations
We investigated whether a one-time spirometry-based calibration could be reapplied after removal and reapplication of the Hexoskin
Regarding the Hexoskin data, tidal volume (TV) could not be distinguished from the artefacts and, we were unable to match TV between the two methods
Summary
Various pulmonary diseases are characterized by exacerbations, which are defined as acute and subacute increases in respiratory symptoms beyond normal variations. These exacerbations may warrant change in regular therapy, and sometimes hospitalization is necessary. Many patients have difficulties perceiving acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AE-COPD) symptoms in a timely manner and, are not likely to seek consultation for additional therapy [1]. To decrease the unwanted effects of unreported AE-COPD, insight should be gained in the early changes in respiratory parameters and symptoms in the prodrome phase of AE-COPD. Telemonitoring parameters related to breathing provide these insights and could lead to a reduction in exacerbations and hospitalizations [2,3,4]. The Hexoskin is a smart shirt that can take continuous and objective measurements and could be part of a potential telemonitoring system
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