Abstract
Introduction: Structured Light Plethysmography (SLP) is a non-contact method of studying chest and abdominal motion. SLP allows a representation of chest and abdominal wall movement which can relate to tidal and spirometic volumes. This can also be studied with a 3D-viewer.
Methods: We obtained serial data from 10 patients who underwent thoracic surgery. They were scanned pre and postoperatively with a PneumaScan-P2™ device (PneumaCare, Cambridge, UK). A checkerboard grid of light was projected onto the patients' chest area. Two digital cameras, recorded the grid movement during breathing. Data was presented as a respiratory volume trace over time and as Konno-Mead plots for left v right hemi thorax and chest v abdomen movement. A post operative patient is shown in figure 1.
Results: In some patients following thoracic surgery we demonstrate reduced chest wall motion on the operated side. We find improvements in chest wall movement over the recovery period. In one patient no significant difference in pre and post op scans can be found. This patient had virtually no pain post-op and returned to work 5 days after his limited thoracotomy and lung resection.
Conclusions: SLP can objectively measure chest wall movement in thoracic surgery patients. There may be a role for it in monitoring post-operative recovery and we are exploring this further.
- © 2012 ERS
