Article

The aims of these double-blind in-vivo trials of a prototype ultrasonic cough
stimulator (CoughStim) were to establish (1) whether ultrasound (US) stimulation
can be safely used to stimulate a cough, (2) the most efficient US frequency and
power parameters to reliably stimulate a cough, (3) whether single- or dual-sided
stimulation is more effective, and (4) whether a cough can be stimulated in
adults unable to cough on demand. Fifteen nondisabled volunteers (18-59 yr) and
seven volunteers unable to cough on demand (85-102 yr) were recruited.
Stimulation was applied to the neck unilaterally at eight frequencies and two
power levels and bilaterally at two frequencies and three power levels. Vital
signs were monitored during testing with no adverse responses. CoughStim
stimulated a cough in all nondisabled subjects, 80% of subjects at 0.58 MHz and 9
W unilaterally and 75% of subjects at 0.58 MHz and 6 W bilaterally. Of the
subjects unable to cough, 71 percent responded to bilateral stimuli (0.54 MHz and
6 W) with a strong cough. The CoughStim regularly and safely produced a
moderately strong cough response in subjects with or without ability to cough and
produced this effect without causing undue discomfort.

Langue : ANGLAIS