Noninvasive high frequency jet ventilation for patients with cardiogenic pulmonary oedema

Background and goal of study

During past years one can observe an increase in the use of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) fuelled by advances in technology and clinical trials evaluating its use [1]. Acute respiratory failure (ARF) due to cardiogenic pulmonary oedema (CPO) is typical indication for NIV.

Materials and methods

In our preliminary study we studied eight patients with ARF due to CPO ventilated noninvasivelly with high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV). A Paravent PAT E jet ventilator was used (FiO₂ = 0.6, f = 2 Hz). PaO₂, PaCO₂, pH, saturation were measured and dyspnoea was estimated before and every 30 min of ventilation.

Results and discussions

PaO₂ values before and during HFJV are shown in Fig. 1. Mean ventilation time was 4 hours. In 1/8 patients HFJV was ineffective; the patient (no. 8) was intubated and ventilated conventionally.

Figure 1

Conclusions

In patients with ARF due to CPO noninvasive HFJV is: (1) effective in reversing life-threatening hypoxemia and respiratory acidosis; (2) well tolerated by patients.