Average Volume Assured Pressure Support (AVAPS) in ALS Patients with Nocturnal Hypoventilation: A Randomized Crossover Trial

Forbes Norris ALS Research Center
at California Pacific Medical Center, California

Hypothesis:

We predict that in patients with ALS, a newer mode of non-invasive ventilation, average volume assured pressure support (AVAPS™), will be superior to traditional pressure-limited non-invasive ventilation by improving adherence to treatment. The improved adherence is likely to correlate with a reduction in sleep related symptoms and orthopnea and improvements in quality of life in patients with respiratory compromise.

Aim:

1. To compare adherence to traditional pressure-limited versus volume-assured pressure support ventilation options.

2. To determine if symptoms of perceived sleep quality, dyspnea, orthopnea and quality of life are affected by either of the two types of NPPV.

3. To define and determine if a specific subset of patients with “pure” diaphragmatic failure adhere to and benefit from one or both therapies.

4. To develop a novel assessment measure to identify symptoms of orthopnea.

Status:
Patients who attend the Forbes Norris Center, an outpatient neuromuscular clinic, and meet inclusion criteria and agree to join the study through the informed consent process will be enrolled.