Test-bench experimental validation of pressure accuracy in a mechanical threshold device for inspiratory muscle training: The threshold IMT® case

Respiratory Medicine 2026 Open access

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Authors: Manuele Foschiani, Edoardo Bortolotti, Alberto Chiavone, Simone Salvitti
DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2026.109025
Cited by: 1
References: 20

Abstract

Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is widely used in rehabilitation, yet the accuracy of mechanical threshold devices has been only partially characterised. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and stability of the pressure delivered by the Threshold IMT® device (Philips Respironics) using independent calibrated instrumentation, with the measurement chain itself validated against a weighted-plunger reference method. Three units were tested on a bench equipped with a calibrated differential pressure transducer (YOKOGAWA EJA110E; full-scale (FS) error ≤0.055%), an ISO 5167-3-referenced differential flow meter (uncertainty

Fields of Study & Subjects

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Research Cardiovascular and exercise physiology Respiratory Support and Mechanisms

Publication details

Journal / source
Respiratory Medicine
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
261
Pages
109025–109025
Publication date
11 July 2026
Language
EN