Efficacy of Marker-Based Motion Capture for Respiratory Cycle Measurement: A Comparison with Spirometry

Abstract

Respiratory rate monitoring is fundamental in clinical settings, and the accuracy of measurement methods is critical. This study aimed to develop and validate methods for assessing respiratory rate and the duration leof respiratory cycle phases in different body positions using optoelectronic plethysmography (OEP) based on a motion capture video system. Two analysis methods, the summation method and the triangle method were developed. The study focused on determining the optimal number of markers while achieving accuracy in respiratory parameter measurements. The results showed that most analysis methods showed a difference of ≤0.5 breaths per minute, with R2 ≥ 0.94 (p < 0.001) compared to spirometry. The best OEP methods for respiratory rate were the abdominal triangles and the sum of abdominal markers in all body positions. The study explored inspiratory and expiratory durations. The research found that 5–9 markers were sufficient to accurately determine respiratory time components in all body positions, reducing the marker requirements compared to previous studies. This interchangeability of OEP methods with standard spirometry demonstrates the potential of non-invasive methods for the simultaneous assessment of body segment movements, center of pressure dynamics, and respiratory movements. Future research is required to improve the clinical applicability of these methods.