Respiration; international review of thoracic diseases
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Breathing pattern and respiratory mechanics in chronically tracheostomized patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease breathing spontaneously through a hygroscopic condenser humidifier.
Hygroscopic condenser humidifiers (HCHs) have been proposed to artificially condition gases breathed by intubated and mechanically ventilated patients. These devices may improve viscosity and coloring of secretions, preventing further bacterial colonization, and heat inspiratory flow in chronically tracheostomized (CT) patients during spontaneous breathing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of HCH on respiratory mechanics and breathing pattern in CT patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) breathing spontaneously during quiet breathing and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV). ⋯ These changes were not significantly different without the application of HCH. In CT COPD patients spontaneously breathing. HCHs have no significant effects on the breathing pattern and respiratory mechanics both during quiet breathing and MVV.