NONINVASIVE NOCTURNAL NASAL VENTILATION ( NIPPV) IN CHILDHOOD

Background: There are only small experiences with mechanical ventilati on via nasal mask in childhood. Patients and Methods: Eleven patients using NIPPV (9 patients aged 4 to 18 years and 2 patients with cystic fibrosis aged 20 and 25 years). Results: NIPPV was effective: in all 1 1 patients. Seven patients needed supplemental oxygen. Theophyllin, Al mitrin and Salbutamol could support the nasal ventilation in special c onditions. Conclusion: Intermittent ventilation via nasal mask is a no ninvasive and effective treatment or chronic respiratory failure in ch ildhood. Monitoring with continuous pulse-oximetry is necessary.