DIAGNOSTIC TECHNIQUES
For a more accurate diagnosis
Spirometry
Spirometry is a medical test that assesses lung function. Spirometry is the preferred screening method for asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). In addition, Spirometry can be used periodically to evaluate the treatment of lung disease.
Spirometry is a simple and noninvasive method intended to measure mobilizable volumes and airflows. The evaluation of the lung function of a patient is made by comparing it to the average lung function of a person of similar race, height, weight, sex and age. Based on this comparison, we determine whether the patient has a lung disorder.
For this test, you breathe into a rubber mouthpiece attached to a recording device (a spirometer). You need to wear light clothing, which does not prevent you from taking a deep breath. It is preferable not to eat a heavy meal before the exam and not to smoke or use bronchodilators 4 to 6 hours before the exam. You start by doing a few cycles of normal breathing. Then, you inhale deeply and slowly and exhale quickly and forcefully, expelling as much air as possible from your lungs. Three cycles of forced expirations of this type must be obtained for conclusive results. The results are displayed on a graph (spirogram).
The most important parameters measured with Spirometry are the following :
- The forced vital capacity FVC (the amount of air forcefully exhaled after inhaling as deeply as possible)
- The forced expiratory volume after one second FEV (the amount of air you can exhale forcefully during the first second of forced exhalation)
- The Tiffeneau index is the ratio FEV/FVC as percentage. In normal subjects, the Tiffeneau index is about 80%. A decreased index indicates an obstructive disease
If you smoke, if you are asthmatic or suffer from chronic cough, shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing, feel free to ask one of our doctors to prescribe you a Spirometry test to assess in detail your lung function.
If you have a prescription for a Spirometry test, you can call 514 747-8185 to book an appointment. We will quickly forward your results to your physician.
