Oxygen Portable Concentrator During Exercises in Patients With COPD

Comparing Effectiveness of Oxygen Supplementation From a Portable Concentrator and a Liquid Oxygen Source During Walking Test in COPD Patients With Respiratory Failure

The purpose of this study is to compare differences in oxygen delivery between portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) and liquid oxygen (LOs) portable units, pose a question if POCs are equally effective as LOs in reducing exercise-induced hypoxaemia. DESIGN: Randomized, single-blind clinical trial.

Our primary objective is to compare at rest and during exercise the evolution of oxygen saturation and dyspnea during 6 minutes walking test in patients with COPD receiving oxygen supplementation either with portable concentrators or liquid oxygen in a random order.

Inclusion Criteria:

• COPD with respiratory failure and indication for oxygen supplementation at rest and/or during exercice.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Evolutive heart disease.
• Unability to understand or realize the tests.
• Acute exacerbation during the last month.