Effect of RC Cornet plus versus Aerobika on Pulmonary functions and sputum volume in bronchiectasis patients: Protocol of a Comparative study. (Preprint)

<sec> <title>BACKGROUND</title> Bronchiectasis is characterized by intractable dyspnea, decreased functional capacity, restricted airflow, acute exacerbation episodes, and irreversible blockage. A common symptom is a productive cough due to mucus hypersecretion. Clearing the lungs can prevent infections, enhance energy conservation, improve breathing, and lung function. Oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) devices, such as the RC Cornet Plus and Aerobika, are non-pharmacological interventions that facilitate sputum clearance by combining airway oscillations and positive pressure to keep airways open. These devices are safe compared to pharmacological therapies. </sec> <sec> <title>OBJECTIVE</title> The Aerobika device has five resistance settings adjustable by the patient. Similarly, the RC Cornet Plus allows patients to determine optimal pressure and flow by turning the mouthpiece. Both are flow-dependent devices. However, the comparative effectiveness of these devices in bronchiectasis patient`s needs further exploration. To address this gap, comparative research is needed on Symptomatic and clinical outcomes. </sec> <sec> <title>METHODS</title> A single-center, 18-month experimental comparative study with thirty participants will be selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, provided with study information, and asked for informed consent. They will be divided into two groups of 15 each: Group A (RC Cornet Plus with conventional chest physiotherapy) and Group B (Aerobika with conventional chest physiotherapy). Sputum volume and lung functions (FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC) will be assessed on day 1 and reassessed on day 7 after a week of intervention with twice-daily physiotherapist visits. </sec> <sec> <title>RESULTS</title> As of November 2023, we enrolled 30 participants, and the data collection process started from November 2023- November 2024. The expected results are that the significance of RC cornet will be more than that of the Aerobika device, and the expected results to be published in the end week of November 2024. </sec> <sec> <title>CONCLUSIONS</title> The study will conclude that is RC Cornet device is effective than Aerobika Device on pulmonary function and sputum volume. </sec> <sec> <title>CLINICALTRIAL</title> This study is registered under CTRI Number- CTRI/2024/07/071083, registered on 23/07/2024. </sec>