Pulmonary Function Testing

Pulmonary Function Testing

Pulmonary function tests, or PFTs, are non-invasive tests that measure how well the lungs work.  They include tests that measure lung volume, air flow, response to bronchodilators and gas exchange between the lungs and the circulation.  Pulmonary function testing is often performed to diagnose lung and airway diseases, monitor disease progress and evaluate response to treatment.  PFTs may also be used to check lung function before surgery or other procedures in patients who have lung or heart problems, who are smokers, or who have other health conditions.