A spirometry allows the physician to evaluate the lung function and to
diagnose for example asthma. It´s a fast and simple method, which is non-invasive
and pain free. Spirometry is important to monitor the natural history of
respiratory diseases.
The patient puts his lips around a mouthpiece while the nose is closed with
a clip. He then breathes in and out following the physician´s directions. A
computer animation helps children to follow the physician´s directions. Usually
children at the age of about five years are able to do a spirometry.
The most important values obtained with spirometry are FEV1 and FVC.
FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second) is the volume which is expired
in one second. In case of bronchial obstruction, the value is reduced. FVC is
the Forced Vital Capacity of the lung.
If there is bronchial obstruction, a bronchodilatator test needs to be
conducted, to evaluate if the bronchial obstruction is reversible. The patients
inhales salbutamol and after 20 minutes spirometric examination is repeated.