Study design (if review, criteria of inclusion for studies)
Randomised controlled trial. Cross-over design.
Participants
13 participants, of which 10 completed. Ages: 7-18 years.
Interventions
CCPT versus PEP.
Outcome measures
Sputum volume, FEV1, FEF25-75, cough score, activity score, PEFR.
Main results
There was no significant difference in sputum production or change in lung function between each technique as assessed by the physiotherapist. Diary card evaluation also failed to demonstrate a difference in sputum production, symptom score or peak expiratory flow rate between the 4 week treatment periods.
Authors' conclusions
PEP mask therapy is an acceptable and effective alternative to postural drainage in interval therapy of patients with cystic fibrosis, although the patients have tended to revert to postural drainage during acute exacerbations.