Helmet Noninvasive Ventilation Helped Patients with COVID-19 Avoid Intubation

Researchers found no difference in mortality or days free of respiratory support but less need for invasive ventilation.

Patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure are treated with supplemental oxygen, often high flow, with progression to invasive ventilation if hypoxemia worsens. Whether some patients could be supported with noninvasive ventilation (NIV) and avoid intubation remains a subject of debate. During the COVID-19 pandemic, interest has risen in helmet NIV as potential way to mitigate the limited supply of mechanical ventilators and minimize aerosolization of virus. This form of NIV is delivered through a helmet that surrounds the patient's entire head and is sealed with a soft, airtight collar; helmet NIV allows easier communication with and greater comfort for the patient.

Investigators from Italy randomized 109 COVID-19 patients with hypoxemic re…

Reviewing Author

Patricia Kritek, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsATS Scholar

Patricia Kritek, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsATS Scholar

Helmet Noninvasive Ventilation Helped Patients with COVID-19 Avoid Intubation

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Reviewing Author