Autogenic drainage: the technique, physiological basis and evidence

Described by Jean Chevaillier in 1967, autogenic drainage is an airway clearance technique that is widely used throughout Europe. The technique is characterised by breathing control, where the individual adjusts the rate, depth and location of respiration in order to clear the chest of secretions independently. This paper describes the technique, based on the work of Chevaillier, offering a physiological explanation for how the technique works. This paper will also review the evidence supporting the use of autogenic drainage.