Study design (if review, criteria of inclusion for studies)
Randomised, cross-over study. Single centre.
Participants
18 children with cystic fibrosis (3-16 yrs)
Interventions
inhaled dose from a conventional jet nebulizer (Acorn) used both with and without a storage chamber (Mizer), compared to two Venturi nebulizers (Ventstream and Pari LC). Filters were attached to the four nebulizer systems, containing salbutamol, and children inhaled through these devices.
Outcome measures
The quantity of drug collected on the filter was assessed using ultraviolet spectrophotometry. The particle size distribution of the aerosol from each nebulizer system was measured using laser diffraction
Main results
Inspiratory filter deposition using the Acorn was lower than the Acorn with Mizer, and both Venturi nebulizers. Filter deposition using the Acorn with Mizer was lower than the Pari LC. No trend with age, height or weight was noted using any nebulizer. Aerosol particle size using the Ventstream was lower than the other nebulizer systems. Drug output from both Venturi nebulizers was more efficient than from the jet nebulizer, used with and without the storage chamber, during inhalation by children with cystic fibrosis. The inhaled dose did not change with the patient's age or size using both types of nebulizer.
Keywords: Adolescent; Albuterol; Bronchodilator Agents; Child; Inhalation OR nebulised; nebuliser; non pharmacological intervention - devices OR physiotherapy; pharmacological_intervention; Salbutamol; Adrenergic beta-Agonists; Respiratory System Agents;