The Use of Airway Clearance Devices in ALS
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
About this trial
This is an interventional treatment trial for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis focused on measuring Airway Clearance Devices, High Frequency Chest Compression Devices, Cough Assist
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- Suspected, possible, probable, Probable (Lab-Supported), or Definite ALS according to El Escorial Criteria
- Males and females age 18 and above
- Novel to airway clearance device use
- Forced vital capacity ≤ 75% of predicted
Exclusion Criteria:
- Any contraindication for pulmonary ventilation scan including allergy to radioisotopes
Any contraindication for use of a pulmonary clearance device
- Susceptibility to pneumothorax
- Recent (within 30 days) barotrauma
- Unstable head or neck injury
- Active hemorrhage with hemodynamic instability
Sites / Locations
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Active Comparator
Active Comparator
Treatment group A
Treatment group B- HFCC and Cough Assist
Subjects randomized to group A will be fitted for and issued a mechanical High Frequency Chest Compression Device (HFCC) device for home use. Subjects will be instructed to use the HFCC device 2-3 times per day for 15-30 minutes each. Subjects will be instructed to keep a device usage, concomitant medication, and adverse event diary.
Subjects randomized to group B will be fitted for and issued a mechanical High Frequency Chest Compression Device (HFCC) device and will also be issued a cough assist device. Subjects will be instructed in the use of both devices. The HFCC device should be utilized 2-3 times per day for 15-30 minutes each followed by a session with the cough assist. Subjects will be instructed to keep a device usage, concomitant medication, and adverse event diary.