Homebased connected devices combined with statistical process control for the early detection of respiratory exacerbations in patients with cystic fibrosis: a pilot study (Preprint)

Background Currently, patients with cystic fibrosis do not routinely monitor their respiratory function at home. Objective This study aims to assess the clinical validity of using different connected health devices at home to measure 5 physiological parameters to help prevent exacerbations on a personalized basis from the perspective of patient empowerment. Methods A multicenter interventional pilot study including 36 patients was conducted. Statistical process control—the cumulative sum control chart (CUSUM)—was used with connected health device measures with the objective of sending patients alerts at a relevant time in order to identify their individual risk of exacerbations. Associated patient education was delivered. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Results One-half (18/36) of the patients completed the protocol through the end of the study. During the 12-month intervention, 6162 measures were collected with connected health devices, 387 alerts were sent, and 33 exacerbations were reported. The precision of alerts to detect exacerbations was weak for all parameters, which may be partly related to the low compliance of patients with the measurements. However, a decrease in the median number of exacerbations from 12 months before the study to after the 12-month intervention was observed for patients. Conclusions The use of connected health devices associated with statistical process control showed that it was not acceptable for all patients, especially because of the burden related to measurements. However, the results suggest that it may be promising, after adaptations, for early identification and better management of exacerbations. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03304028; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03304028