Triflow is the name given to a type of spirometer, or breathing device used to help rehabilitate the lungs. Known as an incentive spirometer, the device is used by patients following many types of surgery, as well as those diagnosed with breathing difficulties such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or emphysema to help improve lung function and respiration. The Triflow model is created with three chambers, each with a ball inside that raise as the person blows in to the mouthpiece. The balls indicate air pressure and air flow strength, and may be used for both inhalation and exhalation therapies.
Tidal Volume
Tidal volume exercises are performed to determine your normal lung capacity. For example, a normal breath may move roughly 0.5 liters of air, while fully expanded lungs and a deep breath may move roughly 5 liters of air, suggests the Physics Factbook data offered by Hypertextbook.com. To test your capacity, you breathe normally several times into the mouthpiece attached to the Triflow spirometer. The physical therapist or your doctor will note your tidal volume flow to determine the need for further therapy depending on the results.
Inspiratory and Expiratory Reserve Volume
To determine the ability of your lungs to pull in air, known as inspiratory volume, you inhale as deeply as you can, then blow into the mouthpiece, but not forcefully. This will enable your doctor to determine your lung expansion capabilities. Take several normal breaths. Then, at your doctor's request, blow forcefully into the mouthpiece after you've taken a normal breath and exhaled. This will enable the doctor to note the capacity of your lungs to empty them of air, or contract, to remove excess air from the lungs. Repeat as directed by your doctor.
Forceful Breathing
Forceful breathing exercises using a Triflow spirometer will help you avoid fluid buildup in the lungs following surgery, if you've been diagnosed with pneumonia, or other physical conditions. Take as deep a breath as possible and exhale into the spirometer, trying to get the balls in the chambers to the point designated by your doctor or therapist. After each breath, rest a moment so you don't get light-headed. Repeat this deep breathing exercise five to 10 times per session, according to the American Association for Respiratory Care clinical practice guidelines, or as many times as specified by your doctor. You may repeat this exercise sequence several times throughout the day. Your doctor may need to determine your breath holding capacity as well as
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