Noninvasive mechanical ventilation

Abstract

Noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) is positive pressure ventilation applied through a mask without an artificial airway and is frequently used in acute and chronic respiratory failure. It is the first choice in the weaning process for patients with acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema, acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and COPD patients with invasive mechanical ventilation. The choice of device, mode, and mask is important to the application and success of NIMV. In appropriate diagnosis and indication, NIMV should be the first choice in patients who are cooperative, able to protect their airways, clinically stable, and to whom the mask can be applied. In this review, the NIMV application, especially in acute respiratory failure, is summarized.