Proposta de um instrumento de sopro eletrônico para reabilitação de pessoas com Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica (DPOC)

Abstract

The rehabilitation of adults diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can benefit from the application of music and technology. Music therapy represents a domain of study dedicated to the use of musical interventions with the purpose of achieving specific functional goals. Research in the literature has identified the use of traditional acoustic instruments, such as the recorder, harmonica, and melodica, in patients with COPD. However, despite the development of electronic wind instruments since the 1940s, their application has been primarily focused on composition and musical performance, with little exploration in health contexts. In this work, we address the development of an electronic ocarina as a therapeutic tool for respiratory rehabilitation, and a preliminary evaluation of its acceptability. The methodology involved the conception of a hardware with a pressure sensor and a solenoid valve for a “pneumatic trigger” of airflow, managed by a microcontroller. A software application was developed for the user interface and sound generation. The pilot study involved two patients in music therapy sessions, comparing the instrument with an acoustic ocarina through the QUEST questionnaire. In addition, 23 healthcare professionals evaluated the device. The results indicate high satisfaction from the volunteers with the electronic ocarina, highlighting visual stimuli, a variety of timbres, and comfort. Healthcare professionals corroborated the usability and playful potential of the device, although they suggested improvements such as adjusting the breath resistance and the instrument’s architecture. In conclusion, the prototype is functional and was well accepted, with great potential to increase engagement in respiratory rehabilitation, reinforcing the importance of user satisfaction for adherence to this novel rehabilitation technology. Future work should expand the sample and evaluate clinical efficacy, in addition to implementing the proposed improvements in the hardware and software.