Effects of chest wall vibration on tidal volume and functional residual capacity in healthy volunteers

Effects of upper chest wall vibration (CWV) during inspiration on tidal volume (VT), respiratory rate (RR) and functional residual capacity (FRC) were examined in five healthy volunteers. CWV (100Hz) was applied through two vibrators attached bilaterally at the 2nd and 3rd parasternal intercostal spaces. VT increased from 415±118ml to 593±210ml during CWV. RR either increased or decreased and the difference was not statistically significant. FRC increased by 542±172ml during CWV. The increases in FRC were observed in all subject and were able to be consistently reproduced. The increase in FRC by this method could be useful in certain clinical situations and further studies are indicated.