Abstract
Background Neuromuscular disorders (NMD) such as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) are characterised by slow progressive muscle atrophy and weakness [1]. Weak respiratory muscles, loss of ambulation and mechanical factors, cause a reduction in total lung capacity (TLC) and Vital Capacity (VC). Patients are at risk of developing acute conditions that decrease pulmonary function and in turn trigger acute respiratory failure [2]. Due to advancements in respiratory interventions NMD patients are progressing into an adulthood healthcare setting, there is a need for intervention in this phase of transition [1]. Currently in Ireland, children with NMD are diagnosed in a paediatric setting and transition to adult services without a designated medical consultant. In January 2012 a multidisciplinary Neuromuscular Respiratory Clinic was established in Beaumont Hospital. This is the first clinic of its kind in an adult setting in Ireland.
Highlights
Neuromuscular disorders (NMD) such as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) are characterised by slow progressive muscle atrophy and weakness [1]
Cough Flow below 270 L/min and 22% had an FVC of less than 1 Litre. 7 out of the 13 patients who had pulmonary function tests carried out recorded an FEV1 less than 50% of the predicted value
Due to unforeseen circumstances only eight patients completed the survey, 88% of patients felt they could had a good communication with the care team and 50% felt their visit to the clinic would lead to fewer health problems
Summary
Neuromuscular disorders (NMD) such as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) are characterised by slow progressive muscle atrophy and weakness [1]. Loss of ambulation and mechanical factors, cause a reduction in total lung capacity (TLC) and Vital Capacity (VC). Due to advancements in respiratory interventions NMD patients are progressing into an adulthood healthcare setting, there is a need for intervention in this phase of transition [1]. In Ireland, children with NMD are diagnosed in a paediatric setting and transition to adult services without a designated medical consultant. In January 2012 a multidisciplinary Neuromuscular Respiratory Clinic was established in Beaumont Hospital. This is the first clinic of its kind in an adult setting in Ireland
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