Abstract
IntroductionRecovery from COPD exacerbation is associated with increases in respirable lung volume. Accelerating these changes through improved bronchodilator delivery could hasten recovery.HypothesisVibrating mesh nebuliser (Aerogen® Ultra) results in greater change in lung physiology compared to standard small volume jet nebuliser.MethodsPatients with an exacerbation of COPD were randomised to receive combined salbutamol 2.5 mg/ipratropium bromide 0.5mg via vibrating mesh (Active group) or standard hospital jet nebuliser (Control) on one occasion between day 2–7 of hospitalisation. Spirometry, body plethysmography and impulse oscillometry were performed pre-bronchodilator and at 1 hour post. Borg breathlessness score was measured.ResultsThirty-one patients have been recruited to date, 16 to the active group and 15 control group. Mean FEV1 was 48 ± 18% predicted. Baseline demographics were comparable between groups. Both groups had significant improvements in FEV1 and Inspiratory Capacity post-bronchodilator, with greater increases in FVC in the active group (0.40 ± 0.39 L vs 0.19 ± 0.19 L, p = 0.06). Significant changes in operating lung volumes and airway impedance were seen in both groups. There was no significant difference in Borg score.ConclusionBronchodilator administration, during a COPD exacerbation, results in significant improvements in spirometry, lung volume and airway impedance. Drug delivery by vibrating mesh nebuliser results in greater absolute increases in FVC. Further studies will assess whether this translates into accelerated exacerbation recovery.