Short and long-term effects of pulmonary rehabilitation in interstitial lung diseases: a randomised controlled trial

Background: Few data are available on the long-term effect of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) and on long PR programs in interstitial lung diseases (ILD). We aimed to evaluate the effects of PR on exercise capacity (6-Minute Walking Distance, 6MWD; Peak Work Rate, W-max), quality of life (St George's Respiratory Questionnaire, SGRQ), quadriceps force (QF) and objectively measured physical activity in ILD after the 6-month PR-program and after 1 year. Methods: 60 patients (64 +/- 11 years; 62% males; 23% with IPF) were randomly assigned to receive a 6 month-PR program or usual medical care. Results: Exercise capacity, quality of life and muscle force increased significantly after the program as compared to control (mean, 95% CI[ll to ul]; 6MWD + 72,[36 to 108] m; W-max 19, [8 to 29]% pred; SGRQ - 12,[-19 to -6] points; QF 10, [1 to 18] % pred). The gain was sustained after 1 year (6MWD 73,[28 to 118] m; Wmax 23, [10 to 35]% pred; SGRQ -11,[-18 to -4] points; QF 9.5, [1 to 18] % pred). Physical activity did not change. Conclusions: PR improves exercise tolerance, health status and muscle force in ILD. The benefits are maintained at 1-year follow-up. The intervention did not change physical activity.