Computer-aided measurement of breath volume and time components using magnetometers.

A computer-assisted method is developed for analyzing volume and time components of individual breaths using a previously developed magnetometer method for recording anteroposterior (AP) diameters of rib cage and abdomen. Calibration constants for the magnetometer system are computed during simultaneous measurements of airflow at the mouth for several breaths during spontaneous breathing. Tidal volume and inspiratory and expiratory times can then be computed from the magnetometer signals alone, without imposing respiratory devices at the subject's airway. No respiratory isovolume maneuvers are necessary. Results from normal subjects and from one patient with bilateral diaphragmatic paralysis show that the magnetometer analysis is closely comparable to standard measurements made from airflow recordings. The magnetometer technique thus provides an accurate means of measuring volume and time components of breathing in man, avoiding the behavioral or reflex effects induced by mouthpiece, nose clip, or face mask. Because no special respiratory maneuvers are required for calibration, the technique will be well suited to the study of breathing in those who are ill.