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[Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and respiratory assistance]
1Clinique de Réanimation, Service de Neurologie, Hôpital Raymond Poincaré, Garches.
Revue Neurologique
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Assisted ventilation can improve respiratory function in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This intervention offers a survival benefit, allowing patients with ALS to return home with respiratory support.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pulmonology
- Critical Care Medicine
Context:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) frequently causes progressive respiratory insufficiency, often exacerbated by obstructive disorders.
- Respiratory distress in ALS can be life-threatening, even when neurological symptoms are minimal.
- Timely diagnosis of ALS is challenging during urgent therapeutic decision-making.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of assisted ventilation in managing respiratory insufficiency in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Summary:
- This study reports on 16 patients with ALS who received assisted ventilation (14 endotracheal, 2 nasobuccal).
- Nine patients experienced transient improvements in respiratory function, enabling partial restoration of spontaneous breathing.
- The mean survival duration from symptom onset was 3 years 3 months, while survival post-tracheotomy averaged 12 months.
Impact:
- Assisted ventilation can transiently improve respiratory function and survival in ALS patients.
- Home-based respiratory support through specialized associations facilitates patient discharge.
- This approach offers a viable management strategy for respiratory distress in ALS.