Article

Twenty-five COPD patients, aged 65years or above, were recruited to test their
ability to use dry powder inhaler Handihaler (Boeringher-Ingelheim) and Aerolizer
(Novartis). The results of a score created to evaluate the inhalation technique
were compared with age, MMSE, Barthel Index, FEV(1), maximum inspiratory and
expiratory pressures, and peak inspiratory flow (PIF). RESULTS: Dry powder
inhalers were correctly used by 60% of the patients (15 out of 25). Among the
capable ones, 13 out of 15 were aged less than 80 years (p< or =0.02), 13 out of
15 had a maximum inspiratory pressure greater or equal to 53cm H(2)O (p< or
=0.001) and a PIF greater or equal to 120l/min (p< or =0.05). All skilled
patients had a minimum MMSE of 25 (p< or =0.001). CONCLUSION: In a geriatric
population, age, the decrease of maximum inspiratory pressure and PIF as well as
cognitive functions, limit the use of dry powder inhalers.
CI - 2009 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS ; FRANCAIS