Spirometer is the name given to the device that is used in order to check the volume of air expired and inspired via the human lungs. The apparatus records the air amount and the rate at which it is breathed in and out within a certain period of time. Spirometers also calculates respiration rates and is therefore referred to as a pressure transducer.

This kind of device is used for different purposes, including tests such as the Pulmonary Function Tests or PFTs. This exam is done as a preliminary step and is helpful in checking the overall health of the lungs. Certain diseases of the lungs can be ruled out through the results of the tests, including bronchitis, emphysema and asthma. Spirometers may also be applied to evaluate the effects of prescriptions and contaminants on this organ, as well as the effectiveness of various treatments.

It was during the 1900s that the first of these devices was developed. This initial device was a dry-bellowed wedge model. It was made by Brodie T G. Prior to this, many other people made unsuccessful attempts at measuring volume of the lungs. Since the 1902 invention by Brodie, the device has improved in many respects. It is now more effective than ever. Other people who were influential in the development of this apparatus: Dubois A B, Compton S D and Woestiijine K P.

There are several different versions of these machines available for use. Typically their variation is in the results that they offer. Full electronic, peak flow, windmill, pneumotachometers, incentive meter, tilt-compensated and whole-body plethysmograph are just some examples of the numerous models.

Whole-body plethysmographs, compared to other such devices, are known for providing highly accurate results related to lung volume capacity. Pneumotachometers can detect differences in air pressure through use of fine mesh. The device is often used to measure flow rates of gas.

The full electronic kinds, as well as other electronic versions, do not include fine meshes or moving parts. However, they are able to compute the rate of airflow by way of channels. Extra moving parts, included meshes, are not needed. Likewise, they do not need to apply ultrasonic transducers or other techniques to measure airflow speed.

Incentive versions are used to repair the function of lungs. Peak flow kinds are best for measuring the ability to exhale or inhale out of the lungs. Wind mill styles, also known as spiropet spirometers, are typically employed to measure forced vital capacity. They are not able to use water and may feature measurements ranging between 1000 to 7000 mL. Tilt-compensated models are a modern type that might be positioned horizontally while measurements are recorded.

Spirometers is the name given to devices that are commonly used in the field of medicine to assess function of respiratory systems, including the lungs. There are an assortment of models available that provide varying functions and results. The structures are typically used when calculating air volume of lungs. PFTs also involve these structures. The first meter was developed in 1900s, many years after others had attempted to calculate volume of this human organ. Units employed in modern day are quite effective.