In- and exclusion criteria

Beneath the in- and exclusion criteria for the RECOVER study are displayed.  We included patients who fulfilled these criteria. 

The inclusion criteria

• COPD (FEV₁< 50% pred, Tiffeneau < 70%)
• Symptoms: dyspnea on exertion / reduced exercise capacity
• PaCO₂> 6.0 kPa (at rest without oxygen)

• Cardiac / neuromuscular diseases limiting a successful rehabilitation.
• Obstructive Sleep apnea syndrome: AHI > 10<< />.
• Previous exposure to chronic NIPPV.
• Participation in a pulmonary rehabilitation program less than 18 months ago.