UCLA

PurposePathogen transmission during cardio-pulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is caused by carrier aerosols generated during respiration.MethodsTen healthy volunteers (age range: 34 ± 15; 4 females) were recruited to see if the physiological reactions to ramp-incremental CPET on a cycle ergometer were affected using an in-line filter placed between the mouthpiece and the flow sensor. The tests were in random order with or without an in-line bacterial/viral spirometer filter. The work rate aligned, time interpolated 10 s bin data were compared throughout the exercise period.ResultsFrom rest to peak exercise, filter use increased only minute ventilation (V˙$$\dot{V}$$E) (ΔV˙$$\dot{V}$$E = 1.56 ± 0.70 L/min, P < 0.001) and tidal volume (VT) (ΔVT = 0.10 ± 0.11 L, P = 0.014). Over the entire test, the slope of the residuals for V˙$$\dot{V}$$CO2 was positive (0.035 ± 0.041 (ΔL/L), P = 0.027). During a ramp-incremental CPET in healthy subjects, an in-line filter increased V˙$$\dot{V}$$E and VT but not metabolic rate.ConclusionIn conclusion, using an in-line filter is feasible, does not affect appreciably the physiological variables, and may mitigate risk of aerosol dispersion during CPET.