Pulmonary function testing (commonly known as
a PFT) measures several different aspects of lung function. We use
the information from this test to help identify possible causes
of a patient's breathing difficulties and to monitor decline or
improvement in lung function over time and in response to treatment.
During the test the patient performs a variety of blowing, inhaling
and breath-holding maneuvers into the PFT machine. These measurements
are analyzed by the pulmonary specialist and integrated with other
information such as medical history, physical examination and x-ray
studies to better understand the type of lung problem and determine
treatment options.
