Use of impulse oscillometry to assess lung function in prematurely born children and young people: Comparisons with spirometry

Premature birth is a risk factor for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD); both of which are associated with obstructive airway disease throughout childhood. Impulse oscillometry (IOS) is an effort-independent, passive measure of tidal breathing, which could have benefits in assessing lung function amongst younger patients unable to perform valid spirometry. A literature search was conducted to investigate the use of IOS in prematurely born children and young people. IOS results correlate with those of spirometry. Reversibility of airway obstruction in children with BPD is variable. IOS could have benefits in assessing individual patient response and suitability for bronchodilator therapy. More work, however, is required to establish multi-ethnic reference ranges and standardise commercially available devices prior to its routine incorporation into clinical practice.