Long-term oxygen therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: the use of concentrators and liquid oxygen systems in north-western Greece.

Background: Long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) is the cornerstone mode of treatment in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Objectives: The present study aims to investigate the effect of two oxygen sources (concentrator and liquid oxygen) on quality of life, exercise tolerance and compliance to LTOT in patients with COPD.

Methods: The survey included 104 patients with COPD (31 on concentrator treatment and 73 on liquid oxygen).

Long-term oxygen therapy in Ioannina.

Background: Long-term oxygen treatment (LTOT) is very important, especially in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but its efficacy is closely related to patient compliance.

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to investigate the compliance of patients under LTOT in the Prefecture of Ioannina (north-western Greece) and to identify factors that might be involved.

Methods: The study included 249 patients treated with LTOT during a 1-year period.