Pulmonary function
Spirometry was performed by KOKO Sx1000® device
(n-Spire-HealthTM, Longmont, USA) previously calibrated according to
recommendations.12 The variables analyzed were forced
vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second
(FEV1) , FEV1 / FVC ratio, forced
expiratory flow between 25-75% of FVC (FEF 25-75%) and
peak expiratory flow (PEF)12, 13 Values were expressed
in absolute values and as a percentage of the predicted
value.12
Maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP)
were measured with a manovacuometer (GERAR®, scale between +120 to
–120cmH2O) following the guidelines.14 To measure
MIP, maneuvers were performed from the residual volume; and, to measure
MEP from total lung capacity. The patient was asked for a maximum
inspiratory or expiratory effort. At least five maneuvers were performed
or until reproducible values were obtained.8 The best
value was used for analysis. Values are expressed in absolute terms and
as a percentage of the predicted value.15