Omdurman Islamic University, Sudan
Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive
respiratory disorder with persistent airflow limitation. Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is
used to manage acute exacerbations and improve chronic respiratory function in COPD
patients.
Objective: To assess the role of NIV in preventing mechanical ventilation in COPD
patients, analyze its impact on hospital readmissions and mortality and evaluate its
effectiveness in improving quality of life for chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure.
Methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted across PubMed,
MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library databases. Key outcome measures included blood
gas improvement, quality of life, and survival rates. Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria
Studies were included if they focused on COPD patients, adults over 18, and measured
outcomes such as mortality, quality of life and hospital readmissions. Studies on
pediatric populations or involving invasive ventilation were excluded.
Results: NIV significantly improved respiratory parameters, reduced hospital
admissions, and mortality, and enhanced quality of life.
Discussion: The findings from this systematic review underscore the effectiveness of
NIV in managing both acute and chronic stages of COPD. In acute settings, NIV has
been shown to significantly reduce mortality, hospital admissions, and the need for
intubation in patients with acute respiratory failure.
Conclusion: NIV effectively reduces mortality, hospital readmissions and improves
quality of life in COPD patients especially during acute exacerbations. Its role in chronic
care needs further exploration, particularly regarding patient adherence and long-term
outcomes.
Hafsah Abdirahiim Maalim is a recent medical graduate from Omdurman Islamic University, and currently an intern in Thumbay Teaching Hospital Ajman, UAE. Hafsa is interested in pulmonology and internal medicine and published 3 papers in different journals.