Comparative Study to Assess the Effectiveness of High Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation Versus Chest Physiotherapy on Lung Function Among COPD Patients in Narayana Medical College Hospital, Nellore

Abstract

Abstract\r\nIntroduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a progressive respiratory disorder characterized by persistent airflow limitation, chronic inflammation, cough, sputum production and breathlessness. COPD includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema and chronic obstructive airway disease. It is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide and creates a significant burden on patients, families and the health-care system. Airway clearance is an important supportive measure in the management of COPD, especially among patients with excessive bronchial secretions. High Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation and conventional chest physiotherapy are two airway clearance techniques used to mobilize pulmonary secretions and improve ventilation. The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of High Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation versus chest physiotherapy on lung function among COPD patients.\r\nMaterials and Methods: A comparative study with factorial research design was conducted among 60 COPD patients admitted in the Pulmonology wards of Narayana Medical College Hospital, Nellore. Among them, 30 patients were assigned to the High Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation group and 30 patients were assigned to the chest physiotherapy group. Data were collected using pulmonary function parameters such as Forced Vital Capacity and Forced Expiratory Volume in one second, along with COPD assessment measures. The intervention was carried out for a period of one month. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.\r\nResults: The study findings revealed a significant improvement in lung function after both interventions. A significant mean difference was observed in the High Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation group from 19.86 ± 1.12 to 21.93 ± 1.06, with p<0.001. In the chest physiotherapy group, the mean score improved from 8.53 ± 0.75 to 19.13 ± 1.26, with p<0.001. The independent ‘t’ test value was 4.102, which was statistically significant at p<0.001, indicating a significant difference between the two interventions. Based on the comparative findings, chest physiotherapy was found to be more effective than High Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation in improving lung function among COPD patients.\r\nDiscussion: The study concluded that both High Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation and chest physiotherapy were effective in improving lung function among COPD patients. However, chest physiotherapy showed comparatively greater effectiveness. Regular use of chest physiotherapy under nursing supervision can improve airway clearance, promote lung expansion and reduce respiratory discomfort among COPD patients.\r\n