[What are the post-rehabilitation options for patients with COPD?]

Abstract

Introduction: The efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation in the short term for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is now clearly established. However, several studies have shown that these benefits last only for between 6 months to one year. On the basis of the current literature, the authors believe that a follow-up of rehabilitation "post-rehabilitation" is necessary not only to maintain benefits but also to reinforce them.

State of the art: We review studies that have focused specifically on post-rehabilitation and found a heterogeneity of tested solutions. As with conventional pulmonary rehabilitation, a multidisciplinary approach including physical activity, health education and psychosocial supports seem to be the key to successfully maintain rehabilitation's gains.

Perspectives: Further randomised and controlled research will be needed to confirm the medical and economic effectiveness of this combination of intervention in patients with different severities of COPD.

Conclusion: Individualised, objective and coordinated follow-up activities allow COPD patients to cope with the chronicity of their disease and the unpredictability of symptoms in the context of daily life.