Duration of benefit following completion of pulmonary rehabilitation in interstitial lung disease: an observational study

Background: It remains unclear for how long the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) last in interstitial lung disease (ILD). An increasing number of ILD patients complete PR and it is vital they be offered the most beneficial approaches.

Methods: This is a retrospective, observational study of a cohort with ILD who had completed PR. Incremental shuttle walk (ISWT) and chronic respiratory disease questionnaire (CRDQ) were compared before PR, at course completion, and 6/12 months follow-up. Focus group discussions with ILD participants who had completed PR and their carers established qualitative views on existing and potential future PR provision.

Results: 79 participants with ILD were identified at course completion, with 39 followed to 12 months. 11 participants died during follow-up. Initial benefits from PR were not sustained at 6 months (ISWT change 0.0m (95% CI-23.2 to 23.2 m), CRDQ change 2.5 (95% CI–2.4 to 7.4)) and 12 months (ISWT change–0.7 m (95% CI–37.3 to 35.9 m), CRDQ change 4.0 (95% CI–2.2 to 10.2)). Continued home exercise gave longer lasting benefit in exercise capacity. Focus group discussions highlighted the value attached to PR and suggested areas for improvement.

Conclusions: Standard PR gives initial benefits in participants with ILD who complete the course, however these are not sustained. Tailored approaches to this group would be appreciated by this group and should be explored.