Effect of Rehabilitation at Moderate Altitude on Airway Resistance Measured With Forced Oscillation Technique in COPD-patients

Effect of Rehabilitation at Moderate Altitude on Airway Resistance Measured With Forced Oscillation Technique in Patients With COPD

Airway resistance will be measured using the forced oscillation technique (FOT). The parameters Rrs, Xrs, and ∆Xrs will be compared before and after a pulmonary rehabilitation cycle at moderate altitude. Additionally, the differences between low and moderate altitude will also be examined.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged ≥18 years
• Stable clinical condition for >3 weeks (e.g., no exacerbations)
• Resting SpO₂ ≥88% and exercise-induced hypoxemia defined as a drop in SpO₂ of ≥4% and/or a level below 90% during the 6MWT
• Informed consent documented by signature

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe daytime resting hypoxemia (SpO₂ <88%)
• Long-term oxygen therapy
• Unstable clinical condition requiring adjustment of pharmacological or other treatment modalities, need for intensive care, or presence of relevant severe comorbidities
• Inability to comply with study procedures (e.g., due to language barriers, psychological disorders, neurological or orthopedic impairments, walking disability, or inability to ride a bicycle)
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Enrolment in another clinical trial involving active treatment