Abstract
Introduction: Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) improves exercise capacity in COPD patients by reducing the intensity of breathlessness. However, there are several practical limitations associated with the use of NIV during exercise. The VitaBreath device (Philips) provides bilevel support; use during rest periods may reduce dynamic hyperinflation and work of breathing.
Aim: To compare the effects of the VitaBreath device on exercise tolerance, dynamic hyperinflation (DH), symptoms of breathlessness and leg discomfort to pursed-lip breathing (PLB) technique.
Methods: Patients initially performed an incremental cycling test to the limit of tolerance (Wpeak). They were then randomly allocated to a constant-load exercise protocol (CLE: 6-min work at 60% Wpeak alternated with 2-min rest; n=9), or an interval exercise protocol (IE: 2-min work at 80% Wpeak alternated with 2-min rest; n=9), both sustained to the limit of tolerance. Patients breathed through the VitaBreath device during the first minute of each 2-min rest periods in both exercise protocols.
Results: Compared to PLB, use of Vitabreath increased exercise endurance time (IE: by 4.4±5.4 min; p=0.04 and CLE: by 4.2±6.1 min; p=0.07). At the limit of tolerance, use of VitaBreath was associated with significant reductions in DH (IE: by 167±187 ml; p=0.028), Borg scale breathlessness (IE: by 1.2±1.5; p=0.047 and CLE: 0.9±0.6; p=0,002), and leg discomfort (IE: by 0.6±0.5; p=0.013 and CLE: 0.8±1; p=0.043).
Conclusions: This interim analysis suggests that compared to PLB, use of VitaBreath is associated with improved exercise tolerance and reduced exertional symptoms both during IE and CLE protocols. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03068026.
Footnotes
Cite this article as: European Respiratory Journal 2018 52: Suppl. 62, PA3361.
This is an ERS International Congress abstract. No full-text version is available. Further material to accompany this abstract may be available at www.ers-education.org (ERS member access only).
- Copyright ©the authors 2018