Efficacy of the Flutter Device for Airway Mucus Clearance in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

Comment: Although the dominant technique in the United States for clearance of mucus has been postural drainage with chest percussion and vibration, other techniques and devices have been gaining acceptance. The Flutter device, popular in Europe, is showing considerable promise in physically removing the bacteria and injurious products of infection and inflammation that characterize the viscous mucus of cystic fibrosis patients. Because of its simplicity, safety, and convenience, the Flutter could improve patient compliance with mucus-clearance therapy and result in less expensive care. Perhaps its use could be extended eventually to other obstructive pulmonary diseases, especially those associated with infection and inflammation.