Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)

  • Skilled in conducting and interpreting Pulmonary Function Tests to assess lung function and diagnose respiratory conditions accurately.

Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)

Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to assess the functioning of the lungs. It comprises several tests that measure various aspects of lung function, including the volume of air the lungs can hold, the rate of airflow, and how effectively oxygen is transferred into the bloodstream.

What is the use?

  • Diagnosis: PFTs play a vital role in diagnosing various respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and bronchiectasis by assessing lung function and identifying abnormalities in airflow, lung volume, and gas exchange.
  • Monitoring: PFTs are essential for monitoring the progression of respiratory diseases over time. Regular testing allows healthcare providers to track changes in lung function, assess disease severity, and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
  • Evaluation: PFTs help healthcare providers evaluate the effectiveness of current treatments and interventions. By measuring changes in lung function before and after treatment, clinicians can assess the patient's response and make informed decisions about ongoing care.
  • Guiding Treatment: PFT results guide therapeutic interventions by providing valuable insights into lung function. For example, PFTs help determine the appropriate medication dosage, the need for supplemental oxygen therapy, or the suitability for pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
  • Preoperative Assessment: PFTs are often performed as part of preoperative evaluations for patients undergoing surgery, particularly those with known or suspected respiratory conditions. These tests help assess the patient's lung function and identify any potential risks associated with anesthesia and surgery.

How does it work?

During a PFT, the patient will be asked to breathe into a special device called a spirometer. This device measures various parameters, including lung volume and airflow. The patient will perform a series of breathing maneuvers, such as inhaling deeply and exhaling forcefully, according to the technician's instructions. The spirometer records the volume and rate of airflow during these maneuvers, providing valuable data about lung function. Additionally, other tests may be included in a PFT, such as lung diffusion capacity testing, which measures how effectively oxygen moves from the lungs into the bloodstream.