[Non-invasive home ventilation (NIHV): long-term survival of 32 cases].
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the course of respiratory function, compliance and tolerance to treatment, and quality of life in patients treated by NIHV, and the impact of NIHV on hospitalizations.


METHODS
Prospective study of 32 patients who underwent annual evaluation of FEV1, FVC, PImax, PEmax, arterial blood gases (ABG), nocturnal pulse oxymetry, 6-minute walk test (6'W), tolerance to treatment and quality of life (scores for dyspnea, physical independence, emotional disturbances).


METHODS
32 patients (median age 59 y, range 20-79) including 44% who were professionally active, suffering from predominantly restrictive (n = 30) or obstructive (n = 2) syndromes, under volumetric (n = 25) or barometric (BiPAP, n = 7) NIHV, were followed for 43 months (median; range 5-54 months).


RESULTS
Throughout the study period, FEV1, FVC, PImax, PEmax, and 6'W remained stable and initial benefit on ABG was maintained. Compliance rate to NIPPV was 85%, 3-year survival was 90%. A major decrease in hospitalizations after initiation of NIHV, low resting dyspnea and a low prevalence of depression and anxiety contributed to a satisfactory quality of life.


CONCLUSIONS
Home NIPPV stabilizes pulmonary function tests, has a durable positive effect on PaCO2; the marked decrease in hospitalization rates after initiation of NIPPV contributes to improved quality of life while controlling medical costs.
Janssens
J P
JP
Division de Pneumologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Suisse.
Kehrer
P
P
Chevrolet
J C
JC
Rochat
T
T
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D017048:Health Care Costs; D006699:Home Care Services; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011788:Quality of Life; D012121:Respiration, Artificial; D012129:Respiratory Function Tests