Non-invasive ventilation in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease

Non-invasive Ventilation refers to ventilatory support without establishing an endotracheal airway. The advent of positive-pressure ventilation delive red through a nasal or face mask has greatly expanded the use of non-invasi ve ventilation, In patients with acute respiratory failure due to chronic o bstructive lung disease, non-invasive positive pressure ventilation reduces the need for intubation and related complications, shortens the duration o f hospital stay and improves survival. The role of intermittent non-invasiv e long-term ventilation in the management of chronic respiratory failure re lated to chronic obstructive lung disease remains to be defined. The advant ages of this therapy as an adjunct to conventional medical treatment and lo ng-term oxygen therapy are not well established. Introduction of non-invasi ve ventilation requires close monitoring by experienced staff. Technical ad vances in delivery systems have improved the result's and acceptance of thi s promising therapy.