Improved Lung Function with Home Oscillation and Lung Expansion Therapy in Children: A Case Series

Abstract

Background:

Oscillation and lung expansion (OLE) therapy delivers both continuous high-frequency oscillation and continuous positive expiratory pressure. This therapy aids in both mobilizing secretions and lung expansion. Objective data about the chronic use of this therapy in the outpatient setting in pediatric patients are limited.

Case Presentation:

We identified 3 patients in our pediatric pulmonology clinic, each with different underlying conditions, who had used home OLE therapy for at least 1 year and were able to perform spirometry. We compared forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁) in the year prior to therapy with the following year after starting therapy. Patients A, B, and C had a mean FEV₁ percent predicted improvement in the year after starting therapy of 19.3%, 13.6%, and 30.5%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Substantial and sustained improvements in lung function were observed with the addition of OLE to standard-of-care therapies. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.