Summary
Using ear oximetry, we studied the oxygen saturation in nine patients with cystic fibrosis who were undergoing chest physiotherapy. All nine subjects showed desaturation, seven to a level of less than 85%. Supplemental oxygen failed to prevent this but did promote a more rapid return to baseline. Chest physiotherapy is not without risk. Patients receiving such therapy require close observation and may benefit from supplemental oxygen.
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McDonnell, T., McNicholas, W.T. & FitzGerald, M.X. Hypoxaemia during chest physiotherapy in patients with cystic fibrosis. I.J.M.S. 155, 345–348 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02960715
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02960715