![]() The frequency of the oscillations can be modulated by changing the inclination of the Flutter device slightly up or down from its horizontal position.Oscillations in airflow result from successive acceleration and deceleration phases that coincide with the opening and closing cycles, producing the "flutter effect." The maximum endobronchial pressure generated is approximately 20 to 25 cm H20 expiratory pressure varies between 0.8 and 2.5 cm H20 during the opening and closing cycle.The opening and closing cycles produce oscillations of endobronchial pressure and expiratory airflow. The actual position of the ball during exhalation is the result of an equilibrium between the pressure of the exhaled air, the force of gravity on the ball, and the angle of contact of the ball on the cone.When a subject exhales through the mouthpiece, the ball rolls and moves up and down, creating an opening and closing cycle that repeats itself many times throughout each exhalation.The Flutter device consists of a hardened plastic mouthpiece at one end, a plastic perforated cover at the other end, and a valve on the inside created by a high-density stainless-steel ball resting in a plastic circular cone.The Mechanism of the Flutter Valve and Procedure for using the Flutter Valve Patients known to have overt right-sided heart failure.Other conditions producing retained secretions.Ĭontraindications of Use of the Flutter Valve.Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).Mucus-producing respiratory conditions, including: 2 Indications of Use of the Flutter Valve In a minority of cases, a one-way valve is formed by an area of damaged tissue, and the amount of air in the space between the chest wall and the lungs increases this is called a tension pneumothorax. Symptoms typically include sudden onset of sharp, one-sided chest pain and shortness of breath. 1 A pneumothorax is an abnormal collection of air in the pleural space between the lung and the chest wall. If you have questions or need more supplies, contact your local DME supplier or UW Health Care Direct (608) 203-2273.The flutter valve is most commonly used to help remove air from a pneumothorax. If you would like to do this technique while in the hospital, you need to bring in your own Flutter from home. Please bring in your Flutter so your therapist can review your technique. Place the Flutter in a clean bowl lined with paper towels to dry. Use this water once and then throw it out. You can make water sterile by boiling it for five minutes. Do not use water from the faucet, bottled, or distilled water. Remove the Flutter from the alcohol and rinse with sterile water. Soak the Flutter device in the alcohol for five minutes. Rinse all the parts and then place them in a bowl with enough rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) to cover the Flutter. Wash all four parts of the Flutter in warm soapy dishwater for five minutes. Place all the pieces to the Flutter on the top shelf or silverware rack of the dishwasher and wash with your normal dishwasher soap. One of two methods can be used to clean your Flutter. The Flutter should be cleaned twice weekly or more often if it is visibly soiled. Your doctor has ordered the therapy _ to _ times per day.Īfter each session, take the Flutter apart and place all the parts in a clean bowl lined with paper towels to dry. When you begin to use the Flutter again, take more time between flutter breaths. If you have these symptoms, stop using the Flutter for a few minutes and breathe normally. If you feel dizzy or get a headache while using the Flutter, you may be breathing too fast. NOTE: It is very important to pace yourself as you breathe out on the Flutter valve. Repeat breathing through the Flutter valve and huff coughing for 20 minutes or until your cough no longer produces sputum. Keep breathing out through the Flutter for another 5 minutes and repeat huff coughs. Then, force the air out of your lungs and say the word “huff” at the same time. To do a huff cough, take a deep breath and hold it for 1-3 seconds. Keep taking slow deep breaths while breathing out through your Flutter valve for about 5 minutes. Tilt your flutter to give you the best vibration. Place your hand on your chest while you exhale to decide the best vibration or “fluttering”. This tilt insures that the ball bounces and rolls while you exhale making the vibrations that loosen the mucus. The bowl of the Flutter is at a slight tilt. Start with the stem of the flutter horizontal to the floor. This allows the air to distribute equally throughout the lungs.Įxhale if you can through the flutter while keeping your cheeks hard and flat. Take a deep breath in and hold for 2-3 seconds. Relax and sit upright with your head slightly tilted back, so your airway is open. Before beginning the treatment, wash your hands with soap and warm water, or use anti-bacterial hand gel, to reduce the risk of infection.
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