Pulmonary Rehabilitation Maintenance Program May Prevent Accelerated FEV1 Decline in Patients With COPD

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of prolonged EMT (>2 y) on patient-centered and functional outcomes. Methods: A total of 36 subjects (EMT, n=12 and control, n=24) were screened; 6 cases and 17 controls completed the study. All subjects underwent a 6-week PR program. Subjects in the EMT group (but not the control group) underwent additional EMT for at least 2 years. Spirometry and 6-minute walk test were assessed at baseline (post-PR) and post-EMT. All subjects also completed questionnaires (Short Form 36 and health care utilization), underwent exhaled nitric oxide (fraction of exhaled nitric oxide) test, and musculoskeletal assessments including ultrasound measurements of the rectus femoris and diaphragmatic thickness, post-EMT. Results: There were 6 EMT patients (mean age, 76±11.9 y, with mean 50±16 sessions/y) versus 17 control patients (mean age, 71±10.7 y, with mean 10±0 sessions/y). We noted a statistically significant decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 second in the control group (P
Source: Clinical Pulmonary Medicine - Category: Respiratory Medicine Tags: Obstructive Airways Disease Source Type: research