The purpose of this study is to determine whether the daily inhalation of nebulised hypertonic saline (6%) will decrease the incidence of pulmonary exacerbations and increase the quality of life for people with non cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.

Official Title

Conditions

Bronchiectasis

Study Type

Interventional

Study Design

Treatment, Randomized, Single Blind, Active Control, Parallel Assignment

Further Details

Primary Outcome Measures:

  • Number of pulmonary exacerbations [Time Frame: One year]

Secondary Outcome Measures:

  • St George Respiratory questionnaire
  • Leicester Cough Questionnaire
  • Lung Function Tests [Time Frame: One year]

The aim of this project is to determine the long term effect of the daily inhalation of hypertonic saline on respiratory infections, quality of life, lung function and hospital admissions in patients with non cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. Hypertonic saline has been shown to be beneficial as a once only treatment in this patient group, but its’ long term effects have not been studied. Participants will be randomised to two groups – those receiving hypertonic saline (6%) and those receiving isotonic saline (0.9%) – and will be blinded to the treatment that they are receiving. They will be given nebuliser equipment and will be instructed how and when to inhale their medication. Objective measures will be taken by a blinded assessor before the commencement of the project and then at 3 months and 6 months post commencement.

Study Start

August 2007; Expected completion: August 2008

Eligibility & Criteria

  • Ages Eligible for Study: 18 Years and above
  • Genders Eligible for Study: Both

Inclusion Criteria:

  • diagnosis of bronchiectasis
  • at least 2 respiratory exacerbations per year over the past 2 years
  • producing sputum daily
  • in a stable clinical state
  • over 18 years of age.

Exclusion Criteria:

  • cystic fibrosis or allergic broncho-pulmonary aspergillosis phenotypes.

Total Enrolment

32

Contact Details

The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, 3126, Australia

  • Caroline H Nicolson, MPhysio: +613 9076 3450; c.nicolson@alfred.org.au

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