The Effect of Heated, Humidified High-Flow Air in COPD Patients With Chronic Bronchitis

Abstract

Introduction: Heated, humidified high-flow air (HHHFA) has been shown to reduce exacerbations in patients with COPD or bronchiectasis with significant sputum production. This pilot study evaluated the short-term effects of nocturnal HHHFA in COPD patients with chronic bronchitis. Methods: This was a prospective, single-center, open-label, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Participants with COPD, chronic bronchitis, and ≥ 2 exacerbations in the prior year were randomized to either nocturnal HHHFA or usual care. Assessments included sleep quality, dyspnea, quality of life, cough, lung function, imaging, and exercise capacity at baseline and 6 weeks. Results: Of 11 eligible participants, seven completed the study (four intervention, three control). Baseline characteristics were generally similar, though the intervention group had a higher BMI and a lower emphysema percentage. No statistically significant differences were observed between groups in primary or secondary outcomes. Conclusions: Nocturnal HHHFA over 6 weeks did not improve clinical or imaging outcomes in this small cohort of COPD patients with chronic bronchitis. The study was likely underpowered due to recruitment challenges. Larger trials are needed to assess the potential of HHHFA in this population. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03959982.