Pulmonary Function Test
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are noninvasive tests showing how well the lungs work. The tests measure lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange. This information can help your healthcare provider diagnose and decide on the treatment of lung disorders.
- Spirometry : Spirometry measures how much air you can inhale and exhale. It also estimates how much air is in your lungs.
- Lung Volumes or Body Plethysmography : Lung volumes or body plethysmography measure the various amounts of air that are in your lungs after different points of inhalation and exhalation.
- Gas Diffusion Study : A gas diffusion study measures how much oxygen and other gases transfer from your lungs to your blood.
- Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test (CPET) : CPET measures how well your heart, lungs and muscles work while exercising.
PFTs are used to check lung function before surgery or other procedures in patients who have lung or heart problems, are smokers or have other health conditions. PFTs are used to assess treatment for asthma, emphysema, and other chronic lung problems.
