Plain-English translation of NCT03396172 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This trial is testing a new approach called "FreeDom" for people hospitalized with severe flare-ups of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Instead of staying in the hospital for a month, you would go home after a few days with a special device called FreeO2 that automatically adjusts your oxygen levels, combined with video check-ins with your doctors and guided breathing exercises at home. The goal is to see if this approach gets you home safely while reducing your hospital stay by half.
Long hospital stays can be hard on patients and families, and may increase the risk of complications. Researchers want to find out if modern technology—like automatic oxygen adjustment devices and remote doctor monitoring—can safely let people recover at home instead, which could improve quality of life and reduce costs.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
You would first spend a few days in the hospital receiving standard care while doctors observe you. Once you meet certain safety criteria, you would be discharged home with the FreeO2 device, which automatically adjusts your oxygen flow based on your body's needs. At home, you would use a telemedicine system to stay in touch with your care team, complete brief health questionnaires, and participate in guided breathing and exercise sessions remotely. Your doctors would monitor you closely throughout this process to make sure you're recovering well.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 5, 2026 · Not medical advice
Canada
Sponsor
Laval University
Enrollment target
~100 participants
Started
May 2018
Primary completion
June 2025
This trial's estimated completion date has passed — the record may not be fully up to date.
Age range
18 Years and older
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in June 2024.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
François Lellouche
Laval University
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.