An easy method of spirometry.

ABSTRACT

Recording of forced expiration from tidal inspiratory level-referred to as Forced Expiratory Capacity (FEC) is a simple and more convenient technique than the conventional forced vital capacity (FVC) manouvre. From FEC tracing, volume expelled in one second (FEC1) and its percentage (FEC1%) can be measured. Such spirometric recording obtained from tidal breathing to Residual Volume (RV) may be referred to as Spirometric Recording at low lung volume. Asthmatics as well as old subjects find this manouvre easier to perform than the conventional FVC technique. FEC recording becomes a simple, reliable and sensitive test for evaluation of early airway obstruction in asymptomatic smokers and therefore may be utilised in clinical and epidemiologic surveys.