A randomized trial to evaluate the sustained efficacy of a mucus clearance device in ambulatory patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Objective: To determine whether a mucus clearance device (MCD) (Flutter; Axcan Scandipharm, USA) could consistently improve the bronchodilator response and exercise performance in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) when used in an ambulatory setting over a one-week period.

Subjects: Fifteen patients with severe COPD (mean age 71+/-10 years) were studied.

Methods: A randomized crossover design compared an MCD with a sham MCD (SMCD), in which each were tested for one week.

Pulmonary rehabilitation improves functional capacity in patients 80 years of age or older.

Objectives: There is limited evidence that pulmonary rehabilitation improves exercise capacity in older patients with chronic respiratory disease. The objective of the present study was to determine whether patients 80 years of age or older gain similar benefits from pulmonary rehabilitation as do younger patients.

Design: Outcomes were compared in 230 consecutive inpatients with moderate to severe lung disease who participated in a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program during a one-year period.

Use of a mucus clearance device enhances the bronchodilator response in patients with stable COPD.

Study Objective: To determine whether the use of a mucus clearance device (MCD) [Flutter; Axcan Scandipharm; Birmingham, AL] could improve the bronchodilator response to inhaled ipratropium and salbutamol delivered by a metered-dose inhaler in patients with stable, severe COPD.

Patients: Twenty-three patients with severe COPD were studied. Mean +/- SD age was 71.