Pulmonary function testing is an important component of assessing lung and breathing disorders. Several tests are commonly employed. The most important is spirometry, a measure of maximal airflow that involves exhaling forcefully into a mouthpiece. Spirometry is performed before and after the administration of an inhaled bronchodilator medication (e.g. Ventolin). The test takes 10-15 mins and we offer it at each of our consulting locations.

An additional test that we offer is “Forced Oscillation” or FOT. It is a non-invasive measure of small airways function. It is particularly useful when spirometry does not detect the relevant abnormality and for those patients who find the spirometry manoeuvre difficult to perform. It is a simple test to perform, requiring only normal breathing through a mouthpiece. At the present time we are the only private respiratory service in Victoria to offer FOT.