Training with inspiratory pressure support in patients with severe COPD

This study evaluates the effects of training with noninvasive ventilatory support in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a randomised, controlled, observer-blinded trial. Twenty-nine patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and with a ventilatory limited exercise capacity (forced expiratory volume in one second <60% predicted, breathing reserve at maximal exercise <20% of maximally voluntary ventilation, resting arterial oxygen tension ≥8 kPa (60 mmHg), end-exercise arterial oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry ≥85%) completed an 8-week supervised outpatient cycle exercise programme. Fourteen patients were randomised to training with inspiratory pressure support of 10 cmH