The Czech Pneumological and Physiological Society and the Czech Society for Paediatric Pulmonology Guidelines for Long-term Home Treatment Using the CoughAssist Machine in Patients with Serious Cough Disorders

Serious cough disorders occurring especially in neurological diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy, muscular dystrophy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are as sociated with a significant respiratory muscle weakness. Muscular dysfunction in these patients gradually reduces cough efficacy, which increases the risk of respiratory complications. The most common complications include stagnation of bronchial secretions, increased risk for mucous plugging, development of atelectasis, increased risk of pneumonia and respiratory failure. Therefore, it is recommendable to include mechanical insufflation/exsufflation with the CoughAssist machine in the comprehensive treatment of these patients. This type of non-pharmacological therapy improves cough efficacy or completely replaces the cough. The CoughAssist machine can be used for treatment of serious cough disorders in both children and adult patients. The indications for long-term home treatment using this device are listed in the national guidelines approved by the Czech Pneumological and Physiological Society and the Czech Society of Paediatric Pneumology. This type of therapy can be indicated in specialised centres. Partial reimbursement (75%) from public health insurance in patients meeting the indication criteria has been possible in the Czech Republic since 2017.