Intermittent positive pressure breathing in management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: current state of the art.

Abstract

The literature evaluating the short- and long-term effects of IPPB is reviewed. Although comparison of studies is difficult, it appears that the majority of acute effects of IPPB can be achieved by voluntary hyperventilation and/or effective administration of bronchodilator therapy by other means. There is also little evidence to support the long-term use of IPPB. Preliminary analysis of 88 patients receiving long-term IPPB therapy in a home care program suggests no unique beneficial effect of IPPB.