Initial results on the efficacy of thoracic vibratory therapy by electrostimulation. Phase 2. The ELECTROVEST study

<bold>Aim</bold>: Phase 2 of the research protocol ELECTROVEST has been started to validate our transcutaneous electrical stimulation prototype vest in a group of patients with chronic respiratory disease and bronchial hypersecretion. <bold>Methods:</bold> Thoracic vibratory therapy is applied to patients by means of the prototype vest as well as with The Vest® Airway Clearance System, to compare results. After random assignment, four sessions are applied at least 24 hours apart with a first device, and after 30 days, a new series of four sessions is applied with the other vest. Prior and after the study sessions, we measure the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) as the primary variables, and others of pulmonary function, exercise performance (6min walk test) and respiratory muscle strength, as the secondary ones. The weight of the removed mucus is also collected and the visual analog scale is applied to describe discomfort. <bold>Results:</bold> As of February 2024, a total of 5 patients have undergone interventions. These preliminary results are depicted in table 1. The study is ongoing. <bold>Conclusions:</bold> So far, the application of thoracic vibrations, by means of electrostimulation therapy, is safe and with an adequate tolerability-comfort in hypersecretory patients. It has positive effects on respiratory muscle-related variables (PIM) and facilitates secretion drainage. <fig><object-id>erj;64/suppl_68/PA1369/F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><graphic></graphic></fig>