Improving cough assistance for patients with neuromuscular diseases
Official title: Investigating Methods to Improve Secretion Clearance Using Mechanical Insufflation:Exsufflation in Patients With Neuromuscular Disease.
Run by Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust · NCT04163198 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing better ways to use cough-assisting machines for people with neuromuscular diseases to help them breathe easier and clear mucus safely.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (London, London) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 19, 2019 |
| Main results expected | February 28, 2027 |
| Study ends | February 28, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | June 4, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04163198 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults with stable or slowly progressive neuromuscular diseases and respiratory muscle weakness.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with rapidly progressive neuromuscular diseases or those experiencing decompensated respiratory failure may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study focuses on optimizing the use of mechanical insufflation-exsufflation (MIE) devices for patients with neuromuscular diseases who experience respiratory muscle weakness. It aims to determine the most effective techniques and settings for these devices to enhance airway secretion clearance while minimizing risks such as lung collapse and impaired blood flow. The study will involve patients with stable or slowly progressive neuromuscular conditions and will assess their respiratory function and secretions. By refining the use of MIE, the study seeks to improve patient outcomes in respiratory health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly enhance respiratory function and reduce complications for patients with neuromuscular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While there is existing evidence supporting the use of MIE devices, this specific optimization approach is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Stable or slowly progressive neuromuscular disease * Respiratory muscle weakness (FVC \<60%, snip \<60%, sleep disordered breathing) * Clinical evidence of respiratory secretions or cough peak expiratory flow \<270 and history of lower respiratory tract infection * Documented clinical stability by supervising clinician Exclusion Criteria: * Rapidly progressive neuromuscular disease (such as motor neuron disease) * Decompensated respiratory failure (pH \< 7.35) * Pregnancy * Aged \<18 * Change in ventilator settings in preceding 4 weeks * Significant physical or psychiatric co-morbidity that would prevent compliance with trial protocol
Where it's running
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Guys & St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
London, London, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Patrick Murphy, PhD
- Email: patrick.murphy@gstt.nhs.uk
- Phone: +442071888070
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.