Portable oxygen concentrator vesus oxygen cylinder in chronic lung disease: patient preferences and psychological implications

Abstract

Background: Lightweight portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) are valid alternatives to traditional portable systems such as compressed oxygen cylinders (stroller) for oxygen therapy. However, patient preference and the possible psychological implication related to the use of both devices have been poorly assessed. Aim: To evaluate the preference between the ambulatory oxygen systems (a POC and a stroller) by COPD and ILDs patients, with exertional desaturation in a rehabilitation setting. Furthermore, the use of one device in comparison with the other was related to perceived quality of life, anxiety and depressive symptoms. Methods: Thirty participants with COPD and ILDs were recruited. Each participant performed a 6mWT while breathing room air. On a subsequent day, two further 6mWTs were performed, in random order: one breathing oxygen via a POC and one with a stroller. On this occasion, all participants completed a questionnaire assessing anxiety, depression and quality of life. Each device was randomly assigned to each patient for one week, and then replaced with the other in the following week. At the end of trial period all participants completed a questionnaire evaluating several aspects of oxygen therapy devices. Results: There were no significant differences in both oxygen SaO2 and mean 6mWT distance between the two portable oxygen devices. The patients expressed higher preferences for POC (73.3%), basing their choice mainly on ease of transport and lower weight. Conclusion: POC and stroller performed in a comparable manner during 6mWT in patients with COPD and ILD and exertional desaturation. Between the devices, POC was preferred because it was associated to a better patient mobility, and not to anxiety and depression.