Current use and future potential of oscillometry in UK lung function testing: a national survey
Madison E Geeves, Michael J Hughes, Harry S Griffin, Karl P Sylvester, Zoe L SaynorBackground
Despite growing international momentum, uptake of oscillometry in routine lung function testing services in the United Kingdom (UK) is unclear.
Objectives
Evaluate the current use of oscillometry in UK lung function services, identify key clinical applications, and explore barriers to wider adoption.
Methods
A cross-sectional e-survey, including multiple-choice and free-text responses, was distributed to members of the Association for Respiratory Technology and Physiology (ARTP) and reported in line with the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys (CHERRIES).
Results
A total of 42 National Health Service (NHS) respiratory services responded. Of these, 40% reported owning an oscillometry device, equally split between forced oscillation technique (Resmon Pro) and impulse oscillometry (Vyntus IOS), with one using both. Oscillometry is already used in clinical practice in 69% of these services, most commonly for adults (57%) but also in paediatrics (21%) and both (21%). It is primarily used in asthma (100%) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (57%), and in 86% of cases for patients unable to perform technically acceptable spirometry. Among services without a device, 50% were actively considering purchasing within five years. The main barrier cited was funding (67%). A lack of clinical understanding was identified, with 86% of services perceiving respiratory consultants to have ‘little’ understanding of oscillometry, and 10% reporting ‘none’. Almost all respondents (95%) supported the development of national guidance from ARTP outlining benefits, limitations and reporting standards.
Conclusion
Despite increasing interest, oscillometry is not yet routinely adopted across UK lung function services. It is predominantly used as an alternative to spirometry when technically acceptable results cannot be achieved and as an additional tool to support asthma care. This national survey highlights the need to improve awareness, training and standardisation. Collaboration with the ARTP to establish national guidance represents an important next step toward wider implementation in clinical practice.