Modes of SPI
SPI (NC, inspiration) processed in four modes of different durations (0.0, 1.0, 3.0 and 5.0 seconds) consequently, as reveals in Figure 1b. Each SPI followed by an open-nose (deflation) for expiration. A 10-second interval, for spontaneous breathing, set up between each mode of the SPI. Two cycles of these SPI modes were performed in each infant. Measured and recorded levels of these PIP in the PLS. Simultaneously, took image at each plateau of PIP, at three assigned locations of oropharynx, supra-larynx and larynx. Whole these FB videos of SPI studies were recorded.
For objective evaluation of the lumen changes, four captured clear images of four SPI durations were collected and sent for evaluation. From these images, the lumen dimensions were judged independently on a five-point Likert scale (1 to 5: severe collapsed, collapsed, average, expanded, much expanded) within one week by five qualified pediatric pulmonologists who blinded to their sources. The final scores were averaged and analyzed.
Data of patient demographics, PIP levels, expansion scores and images in the PLS were all collected for further analysis.