FREQUENCY OF TYPE-II RESPIRATORY FAILURE IN CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE

Abstract

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by bronchial obstruction and impaired alveolar ventilation, leading to inadequate gas exchange and potential hypercapnia. In COPD, respiratory muscle dysfunction and structural airway changes exacerbate ventilation issues, increasing the risk of type II (hypercapnic) respiratory failure. This study investigates the frequency of type II respiratory failure in COPD patients, a complication linked to high morbidity and mortality.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of type II respiratory failure in patients with COPD.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2023 to June 2024 at Saidu Group of Teaching Hospitals, Saidu Sharif, Swat, after approval by the hospital’s Ethical Committee. Patients were recruited from the Outpatients Department. Sample size was calculated using the WHO sample size formula based on an expected frequency of type II respiratory failure of 25%, with a 5% margin of error and a 95% confidence interval, resulting in a total of 118 participants. Clinical data were collected, including demographics, spirometry, and arterial blood gas analyses, with type II respiratory failure defined by a PaCO₂ ≥45 mmHg.

Results: Of the 118 patients, 82 (70%) were male and 35 (30%) female, with ages ranging from 40 to 65 years. Moderate stage 2 COPD was most common, accounting for 47.5% of cases. Type II respiratory failure was observed in 28 patients (24%).

Conclusion: This study highlights a significant prevalence of type II respiratory failure among COPD patients, particularly in older males. Notably, type II respiratory failure does not appear directly correlated with COPD severity as measured by GOLD staging.