Acapella vs Flutter for breathing after lobectomy
Official title: Comparative Effects of Acapella and Flutter Devices on Secretion Clearance, Dyspnea, Arterial Blood Gases, and Lung Function Test in Post-Lobectomy Patients
Run by Riphah International University · NCT07737093 · Data updated 2026-11-12
In people who have had a lobectomy, this study tests whether the Acapella device or the Flutter device helps clear mucus and improve breathing.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 35 Years to 54 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 28 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lahore, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 20, 2026 |
| Main results expected | November 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 30, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07737093 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 35-54 who recently underwent lobectomy, are hemodynamically stable, can maintain oxygenation, and are able to perform breathing exercises with the devices.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are unstable, cannot perform the breathing exercises, or have contraindications to airway clearance techniques may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study compares two oscillatory positive expiratory pressure devices—Acapella and Flutter—in post-lobectomy patients. Participants are 35 to 54 years old and are 48 hours post-surgery with stable respiratory function. The study will assess secretion clearance, dyspnea, arterial blood gases, and measures of lung function to determine which device provides better short-term pulmonary recovery. It aims to inform postoperative airway clearance strategies in lobectomy care. The trial is conducted at Riphah International University in Lahore, Pakistan.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients may experience better mucus clearance and faster improvement in breathing after lobectomy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research supports the benefits of OPEP devices in respiratory recovery, but direct head-to-head comparison in lobectomy patients is limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients aged 35 to 54 years * Both male and female patients * Patients who have undergone lobectomy surgery * Hemodynamically stable patients * Patients with adequate respiratory function (able to maintain oxygenation) * Patients 48 hours post-surgery * Patients who provide written informed consent to participate in the study Exclusion Criteria: * Hemodynamically unstable patients * Patients within less than 48 hours post-surgery * Presence of pneumothorax or air leak complications * Patients with recent major trauma or additional surgery * Patients with unstable cardiac conditions * Patients with massive hemoptysis * Patients unable to cooperate or perform breathing exercises with devices * Any contraindication to airway clearance techniques as judged by the clinician
Where it's running
-
Riphah International University
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Tanzeela Nazir, MSCPPT — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Humera Ayub, MSCPPT
- Email: humera.ayub@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: +923045938096
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.