Effects on PaCO2 Levels of Two Different Nasal Cannula in COPD Patients

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy is increasingly used in the management of acute respiratory failure. Its clinical application has been expanded also in other specific settings In stable COPD patients and in those recovering from acute exacerbation, HFNC can reduce PaCO2, respiratory rate, minute ventilation and respiratory effort. The aim of this randomized crossover physiological study is to investigate the effects on PaCO2 levels of two different nasal cannula (\'Optiflow + Duet\' interface vs \"standard\" nasal interface) in COPD patients with persistent hypercapnia following an acute severe exacerbation