Bronchial Clearance Carried Out With a Mechanical In-exsufflator vs. a Manual Respiratory Physiotherapy Technique in Hospitalized Elderly People
This study focuses on older people, aged 60 and over, who are in hospital with chest problems like a chesty cough and difficulty clearing mucus. As people get older, their lungs change, making them more likely to get chest infections and struggle to cough effectively. This trial looks at two different methods to help clear airways: one uses a machine called a mechanical in-exsufflator, and the other is a standard physiotherapy technique. Researchers want to find out if the machine is more effective than traditional methods in helping these patients clear their chests and breathe more comfortably, aiming to improve their recovery and reduce complications.
At a glance
What is this study about?
As we get older, our bodies change, and this includes our lungs. Things like our muscles getting weaker, our chest wall becoming stiffer, and our cough not being as strong can make it harder to clear mucus from our airways. This can lead to chest infections like pneumonia, especially when we're ill and in hospital. In fact, chest problems are a very common reason why older people need to be admitted to hospital.
When mucus builds up in the airways, it's called 'bronchial congestion'. It can make breathing difficult and increase the risk of serious infections. To help with this, doctors and physiotherapists often use techniques to clear the airways. This study is exploring two different approaches for older hospital patients who are struggling with this problem.
One approach is called a 'mechanical in-exsufflator', which is a machine that helps you take a deep breath in and then gives a quick push out to simulate a strong cough and help clear mucus. The other approach is the 'standard care' which typically involves hands-on chest physiotherapy techniques. Researchers want to compare these two methods to see if the machine works better at clearing airways and helping patients feel more comfortable.
Key takeaways
- Study compares two ways to clear mucus for older hospital patients.
- Aims to see if a machine or standard physiotherapy works better.
- Focuses on improving breathing and reducing chest infections.
- Participants must be 60 or over with chest congestion.
- Could help make breathing easier and improve recovery.
- Participation is voluntary and you can leave at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for volunteers who are 60 years old or older and are currently in hospital because they have a chesty cough and difficulty clearing their airways. You would also need to show that your breathing strength is below a certain level and that you can understand and agree to take part.
However, some people won't be able to join the study. This includes those with certain nerve or muscle conditions, or a history of specific lung problems like a collapsed lung or severe asthma. You also can't take part if you're unable to cough when asked, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you refuse to participate after learning about the study. The doctors will check your general health to make sure it's safe for you to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 60 years old or older?
- Are you currently in hospital with a chesty cough or difficulty clearing mucus?
- Can you understand information and give your consent to take part?
- Do you *not* have certain lung conditions like severe asthma or a history of a collapsed lung?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you would be assigned to one of two groups: either you'd receive treatment with a special machine called a mechanical in-exsufflator, or you'd receive standard chest physiotherapy. Both treatments aim to help clear your airways. The study will look at how well each method works for you. You would have your breathing monitored and answer some questions about your comfort levels before and after the treatment sessions. The study will continue as long as you are in hospital and require help with clearing your airways. This involves a few sessions, and the medical team will explain everything in detail.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (4)
- CHU de Clermont-FerrandVerified postcodeClermont-Ferrand, France
- HCL Hôpital Edouard HerriotVerified postcodeLyon, France
- HCL Hôpital Louis PradelVerified postcodeLyon, France
- Hôpital Saint Joseph Saint LucVerified postcodeLyon, France
Common questions
What is 'bronchial congestion'?
It means you have too much mucus or phlegm in your airways, making it hard to breathe and easy to get chest infections.
What is a 'mechanical in-exsufflator'?
It's a machine that helps you take a deep breath and then pushes air out quickly, like a strong cough, to clear mucus from your lungs.
What is 'standard care' in this study?
It usually means the typical chest physiotherapy techniques that doctors and nurses use to help clear your airways, often involving gentle squeezing or tapping on your chest.
Will I feel discomfort during the treatment?
Previous studies showed that the machine treatment was well-tolerated with low discomfort. Your medical team will monitor you closely.
Who is running this study?
This study is being conducted by medical researchers in a hospital setting to learn more about the best ways to help older patients with chest problems.
How to find out more
Lise Laclautre
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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