TY - JOUR T1 - Spacer devices for inhaled therapy: why use them, and how? JF - ERJ Open Research JO - erjor DO - 10.1183/23120541.00065-2018 VL - 4 IS - 2 SP - 00065-2018 AU - Vincken, Walter AU - Levy, Mark L. AU - Scullion, Jane AU - Usmani, Omar S. AU - Dekhuijzen, P.N. Richard AU - Corrigan, Chris J. A2 - , Y1 - 2018/04/01 UR - http://openres.ersjournals.com/content/4/2/00065-2018.abstract N2 - We present an extensive review of the literature to date pertaining to the rationale for using a spacer/valved holding chamber (VHC) to deliver inhaled therapy from a pressurised, metered-dose inhaler, a discussion of how the properties of individual devices may vary according to their physical characteristics and materials of manufacture, the potential risks and benefits of ancillaries such as valves, and the evidence that they contribute tangibly to the delivery of therapy.We also reiterate practical recommendations for the correct usage and maintenance of spacers/VHCs, which we trust offer practical help and advice to patients and healthcare professionals alike.Every patient treated with a pMDI should own and regularly use a spacer/VHC, and know how to use it properly, both for routine preventer therapy and in an emergency, and how to keep it clean and keep an eye out for faults http://ow.ly/EDs730keDOw ER -