Forced oscillation technique for determination of resistance to breathing in children

Abstract

A method for measuring total respiratory resistance (R_T) using a forced oscillation technique was applied to children between 3 and 12 years of age. R_T at midinspiration was higher than airway resistance (Raw) measured on the same children by total body plethysmography. Normal R_T values were compared with results in children with asthma and cystic fibrosis. It is suggested that the technique could have a wider application in the assessment of airway obstruction in children.