What Are Some of the Novel Methods of Non-invasive Ventilation, and How Do They Compare to Traditional Techniques?

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Beyond traditional positive pressure ventilation, novel methods of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) include Proportional Open Ventilation (POV) and Negative Pressure Ventilation (NPV). POV, like the Life 2000 Ventilator, offers synchronous delivery of inspiratory pressure and oxygen, particularly beneficial for patients with activity-induced breathlessness. NPV, represented by devices such as the Hayek Biphasic Cuirass Ventilator, promotes airflow using negative pressure applied to the chest wall, aiding in more homogeneous lung inflation and supporting natural breathing patterns. These advanced methods provide alternatives to traditional NIV, catering to specific patient needs, from enhancing mobility during activities to minimizing complications associated with positive pressure ventilation. 

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Non-invasive Ventilation in the Post-Acute Care Setting, presented by Claire Aloan, MS, RRT-NPS, FAARC.