Investigation of the sustainability and reliability of bottle-PEP treatment started during acute exacerbation in patients with cystic fibrosis

Investigation of Sustainability and Safety of Bottle-Pep Treatment During Acute Exacerbation in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis. Fzt. Büşra Nur FINDIK, Marmara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Neurological Rehabilitation Master's Program, Supervisor: Assoc. Dr. Özge KENİŞ COŞKUN Objective: we aimed to evaluate the sustainability and reliability of the bottle-pep in patients olmwith Cystic fibrosis (CF) and to compare it with patients using different methods. Materials and Methods: Patients with CF at the age of 6-18 years in acute exacerbation period were included in the study. Bottle-PEP training was given by a competent physiotherapist to those patients who did not use any method, and those who currently use another device were followed up with their existing devices. Thus, patients divided into two groups were followed up for 1 year. The patients were evaluated by phone every 2 weeks for exacerbation, regular and proper use of the device, and satisfaction during their follow-up. The patients were evaluated every 3 months with pulmonary function tests, 6-minute walking test (6MWT) and CF Questionnaire. Results: 34 patients were included in the study. The acute exacerbation score of the patients was 4.5(min0, max21) in the Bottle-PEP group and 6(min4 max13) in the other group, there was no significant difference between the two groups(p=0.1). Treatment compliance scores were compared, the median value of the Bottle-PEP group was 24 (min2 max27), the other group was 27 (min4 max27), and there was no significant difference(p=0.6). During follow-up of, there was no significant difference in FEV1, 6-minute walk test and quality of life data (p>0.05). Conclusion: Bottle-PEP treatment is not different from other devices in terms of long-term usability and safety in patients diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. Keywords: Cystic fibrosis, positive expiratory pressure, pulmonary rehabilitation