Home noninvasive ventilation
Home noninvasive ventilation can be considered for patients with stable COPD and persistent hypercapnia. A large meta-analysis demonstrated improved outcomes (reduced mortality, hospital admissions and intubations) in patients with stable COPD and persistent hypercapnia treated with home noninvasive ventilation1. The study did not find significant difference in quality of life. Consider referring patients with severe COPD, recurrent exacerbations and persistent hypercapnia and hypoxia to a centre with expertise in home noninvasive ventilation for assessment of suitability.