This document discusses controversial issues in non-invasive ventilation. It begins by explaining the normal ventilatory balance and how respiratory failure causes an imbalance. It then discusses how mechanical ventilation can unload the respiratory muscles.
It defines non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) and notes that not all ventilators are suitable for each indication. It reviews different interfaces like facial masks, nasal masks, nasal prongs, and others. It also discusses a study comparing the physiologic effects of different interfaces.
The document continues by looking at the rationale for using positive pressure ventilation in cardiogenic pulmonary edema. It reviews several clinical trials that show benefits of NPPV over standard treatment in acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema and respiratory failure