J Pediatr. 1994 May;124(5 Pt 1):689-93.

18 patients with cystic fibrosis and mild to moderate lung disease

Flutter was compared with vigorous voluntary coughing and with postural drainage (chest percussion and vibration).

efficacy of the Flutter in clearing mucus from the airways

The amount of sputum expectorated by subjects using the Flutter was more than three times the amount expectorated with either voluntary cough or postural drainage (p < 0.001). There were no adverse effects.

The Flutter is simple to use, inexpensive, and fully portable, and once the patient and family are instructed in its use, it does not require the assistance of a caregiver. For hospitalized patients, elimination of the need for a therapist could reduce health care costs. Long-term studies of the use of the Flutter seem justified to determine its effects on pulmonary function and outcome.

Active cycle of breathing technique in cystic fibrosis

Oscillating devices in cystic fibrosis

Positive expiratory pressure in cystic fibrosis