Oscillating devices for airway clearance in people with cystic fibrosis.

Morrison L, Agnew J.

The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness and acceptability of oscillating devices compared to other forms of physiotherapy to improve respiratory function, mucus clearance and other outcomes in people with CF.  Two hundred and sixty-five studies were identified; thirty studies (total of 708 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Studies varied in duration from up to one week to one year in duration. Nineteen of the studies were cross-over in design. Data were not published in sufficient detail in most of these studies to perform meta-analysis.

There was no clear evidence that oscillation was a more or less effective intervention overall than other forms of physiotherapy. More adequately-powered long-term randomised controlled trials are needed.

Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2009,
1, CD006842.

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