Body Plethysmography

Body plethysmography is a pulmonary function diagnostic test that enables the measurement of lung parameters that cannot be assessed during spirometry. It accurately determines total lung capacity, residual volume, and airway resistance, making it an indispensable tool in the diagnosis of various respiratory system diseases.

How is the examination performed?

1. The patient is placed inside the plethysmography chamber, which records changes in lung air volume, pressure, and resistance. Being in this specialized cabin during the test allows for highly precise measurement of pressure and volume changes during breathing.
2. During the breathing tests, the patient breathes through a special mouthpiece, performing several breathing maneuvers including deep inhalations, exhalations, and specific pressure tests. The device records various pulmonary functional parameters.
3. The physician then evaluates the obtained results and assesses for any possible abnormalities or impairments.

During the breathing maneuvers, the patient may experience temporary dizziness, fatigue, or an increased heart rate. These sensations are caused by the deep and rapid breathing required during the test.

Who needs this examination?

• Individuals with suspected or confirmed lung diseases, such as bronchial asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), bronchiectasis, interstitial lung diseases, sarcoidosis, and others.
• People experiencing shortness of breath, cough with or without sputum, lung sounds, smokers, vapers, as well as passive smokers and passive vapers.
• Patients with a known lung disease who require assessment of treatment effectiveness. 

When should pulmonary function tests not be performed?

Pulmonary function tests should not be conducted if, within the past 4 weeks, the patient has experienced any of the following:

• Surgery of the chest or abdominal cavity
• Pneumothorax
• Myocardial infarction
• Infection of the nose, paranasal sinuses, or ear
• Surgery of the nose, paranasal sinuses, or ear
• Eye surgery
• Brain surgery
• Concussion

Patient have an increased health risk if they have:

• Aneurysm of cerebral blood vessels, the aorta, or other blood vessels
• Previous episodes of loss of consciousness, coughing fits, or forceful exhalations
• Recent (or current) pulmonary embolism
• Severe arterial hypertension
• Uncontrolled pulmonary hypertension

Preparation before the examination:

• Refrain from smoking and the use of intoxicating or narcotic substances for at least 24 hours;
• Avoid heavy meals 2–3 hours prior to the examination;
• Avoid intense physical activity before the examination;
• Arrive wearing comfortable, loose clothing, especially regarding upper body garments, to allow for unrestricted deep and rapid breathing maneuvers;
• Consult your doctor about any medications that may affect the test results.

Why choose body plethysmography?

• More accurate diagnosis – provides results on lung function parameters that cannot be measured by spirometry.
• Non-invasive and painless procedure.
• Quick procedure – the test typically takes approximately 15–30 minutes.

Before the examination, please inform medical staff if you have:

• Arterial hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, decompensated heart failure, or unstable angina;
• Recent pulmonary embolism;
• Active tuberculosis or other respiratory infections and/or are currently receiving medication for these conditions;
• Oral mucosal lesions or bleeding from the mouth.