Search

BACKGROUND Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and the need for positive-pressure ventilation (PPV) are significant postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) that increase patients' lengths of stay, mortality, and costs. Current tools used to predict PPCs use nonmodifiable preoperative factors; thus, they cannot assess provided respiratory therapy effectiveness. The Respiratory Assessment and Allocation of Therapy (RAAT) tool was created to identify HAP and the need for PPV and assist in assigning respiratory therapies. This study aimed to assess the RAAT tool's reliability and validity and determine if allocated respiratory procedures based on scores prevented HAP and the need for PPV. METHODS Electronic medical record data for nonintubated surgical ICU subjects scored with the RAAT tool were pulled from July 1, 2015-January 31, 2016, using a consecutive sampling technique. Sensitivity, specificity, and jackknife analysis were generated based on total RAAT scores. A unit-weighted analysis and mean differences of consecutive RAAT scores were analyzed with RAAT total scores ≥ 10 and the need for PPV. RESULTS The first or second RAAT score of ≤ 5 (unlikely to receive PPV) and ≥ 10 (likely to receive PPV) provided a sensitivity of 0.833 and 0.783 and specificity of 0.761 and 0.804, respectively. Jackknifed sensitivity and specificity for identified cutoffs above were 0.800-0.917 and 0.775-0.739 for the first RAAT score and 0.667-0.889 and 0.815-0.79 for the second RAAT score. The initial RAAT scores of ≥ 10 predicted the need for PPV (P < .001) and was associated with higher in-hospital mortality (P < .001). Mean differences between consecutive RAAT scores revealed decreasing scores did not need PPV. CONCLUSIONS The RAAT scoring tool demonstrated an association with the need for PPV using modifiable factors and appears to provide a quantitative method of determining if allocated respiratory therapy is effective.

The Philips Respironics recall notification issued in June 2021 affected many of their positive airway pressure devices and mechanical ventilators including the Trilogy 100 and 200 ventilators that are often utilized in children using home positive pressure ventilation via tracheostomy (PPV-T). Optimal strategies to replace ventilators in children using home PPV-T affected by the Philips recall are unknown. We conducted a retrospective study of children using home PPV-T with recalled Trilogy ventilators who underwent inpatient ventilator change to non-recalled portable home ventilators (PHV) using our collaborative institutional protocol. During the study period, there were 40 children using PPV-T with recalled Trilogy ventilators and 19 patients underwent inpatient ventilator change either during an elective hospitalization (n = 8) or during an unscheduled or postoperative hospitalization (n = 11). The median duration of hospitalization for ventilator change was 2 days (interquartile range: 6 days) and generally 1 day for patients admitted solely for ventilator change. In children using PPV-T with recalled Trilogy ventilators, a systematic protocol collaborating with the patients, physicians, and durable medical equipment companies may optimize transition to nonrecalled PHVs.

A number of diseases affecting central ventilation, breathing mechanics or both, characterize hypoventilation syndromes. The incidence of hypoventilation syndromes varies according to the underlying reason. The hypoventilation syndrome's clinical symptoms are generally vague and are in most cases due to the underlying clinical condition. More individuals develop hypercapnia and hypoxemia as hypoventilation continues to worsen. Therefore, clinical indications of hypoxemia such as cyanosis, and evidence of hypercapnia may also be present. Regardless of the etiology, successful hypoventilation therapy focuses on the underlying illness and noninvasive ventilation. Treatment for these diseases includes integrated main disorder treatment and, increasingly, non-invasive positive pressure breathing. In this paper, we overview current evidence regarding different etiologies and management of hypoventilation syndromes. Data was collected during the period of 6 months searching Pubmed, EPISCO, Web of science, Google scholar databases to include papers with relative topics.

Objective Current delivery room (DR) resuscitation utilizes pressure-limited devices without tidal volume (TV) measurements. Clinicians use chest expansion as a surrogate, which is a poor indicator of TV. TV in early life can be highly variable due to rapidly changing lung compliance. Our objectives were to assess feasibility of measuring TV in DR, and to report the generated TV in intubated patients. Study design Prospective, observational, feasibility study in infants 6 ml/kg) provided 47.7% of times. Conclusion TV measurement in DR is feasible. It is associated with high intra and inter-patient variability.

Shadi Hamouri,1 Shaher M Samrah,2 Omar Albawaih,1 Zidan Saleh,2 Mahmoud M Smadi,3 Ahmad Alhazymeh,1 Sebawe Syaj1 1Department of General Surgery and Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, King Abdullah University Hospital, Irbid, 22110, Jordan; 2Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, King Abdullah University Hospital, Irbid, 22110, Jordan; 3Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Faculty of Science and Art, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, JordanCorrespondence: Shadi HamouriDepartment of General Surgery and Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, King Abdullah University Hospital, P. O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, JordanTel +962 79 6266693Fax +962-2-7095010Email smhamouri@just.edu.joPurpose: This study aims to determine the incidence and outcome of COVID-19 patients who required positive pressure ventilation (PPV) and subsequently developed pulmonary barotrauma (PBT). Also, to investigate the risk factors and predictors of these complications to better understand the disease pathogenesis.Patients and Methods: This retrospective analysis enrolled all adult COVID-19 patients admitted through the period from October 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020. All patients who received any form of PPV were included. Patients were then divided into two groups based on PBT development, including subcutaneous emphysema, pneumothorax, and pneumomediastinum. Medical records of all patients were reviewed. Patients’ demographics, laboratory data on admission, respiratory support modes, surgical interventions, and outcomes were collected and analyzed.Results: In the specified period, 1095 patients were hospitalized due to COVID-19 illness. A total of 239 (21.8%) of all admitted patients received PPV. PBT accounted for 21.3% (51/239) of the study cohort. While both groups were equally exposed to the same modes of PPV, receiving invasive ventilation significantly correlated with decreased PBT odds (OR = 0.891; 95% CI, 0.803– 0.988; p=0.029). PBT patients were significantly younger (p< 0.001). Diabetes mellitus was found to have a protective effect on developing PBT (OR = 0.867; 95% CI, 0.782– 0.962), while PO2/FIO2 ratio was inversely associated with higher odds of developing PBT in both univariate and multivariate analyses (p=0.03 and p=0.019, respectively).Conclusion: COVID-19-infected patients are at a higher risk of developing PBT. Invasive positive pressure ventilation was associated with less PBT compared to noninvasive ventilation and delaying intubation does not seem to reduce the risk of pulmonary barotrauma.Keywords: COVID-19, pulmonary barotrauma, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, positive pressure ventilation, adult respiratory distress syndrome

Purpose of review Mechanical ventilation is frequently needed in patients with cardiogenic shock. The aim of this review is to summarize and discuss the current evidence and the pathophysiological mechanism that a clinician should consider while setting the ventilator. Recent findings Little attention has been placed specifically to ventilatory strategies in patients with cardiogenic shock undertaking mechanical ventilation. Lung failure in patients with cardiogenic shock is associated with worsening outcome as well as a delay in mechanical ventilation institution. The hemodynamic profile and cardiogenic shock cause, considering the preload dependency of the failing heart, must be defined to adjust ventilatory setting. Summary Evidence is growing regarding the role of lung failure as adverse prognostic factor and beneficial effect of positive pressure ventilation as part of first-line treatment in patients with cardiogenic failure.

Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) may permit tracheostomy decannulation (TD) in patients with congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS) requiring nocturnal positive pressure ventilation via tracheostomy (PPV-T). There is limited evidence on optimal strategies for transitioning patients from PPV-T to NPPV. This study aimed to describe the clinical course and outcome of children with CCHS who underwent TD and transitioned from PPV-T to NPPV. Retrospective review was conducted on patients with CCHS using nocturnal PPV-T who underwent TD to NPPV. The results of clinical evaluations, airway endoscopy, polysomnography, and clinical course leading to TD were analyzed. We identified 3 patients with CCHS aged 8–17 years who required PPV-T only during sleep. Patients underwent systematic multidisciplinary evaluations with a pediatric psychologist, pulmonologist, sleep physician, and otolaryngologist utilizing a TD algorithm. These included evaluation in the sleep clinic, NPPV mask fitting and desensitization, endoscopic airway evaluation, daytime tracheostomy capping, acclimatization to low-pressure NPPV, polysomnography with capped tracheostomy and NPPV titration, and if successful, TD. All patients underwent successful TD following optimal titration of NPPV during polysomnography. The duration to TD from decision to pursue NPPV was between 2.4 and 10.6 months, and the duration of hospitalization for TD was between 4 and 5 days. There were no NPPV-related complications; however, all patients required surgical closure of tracheocutaneous fistula. NPPV may be an effective and feasible option for patients with CCHS requiring PPV-T during sleep and permits TD. In patients with CCHS, a systematic multidisciplinary algorithm may optimize successful transition to NPPV and TD.

Hydropneumopericardium is defined as the presence of air and water in the pericardial cavity. Several causes have been postulated which can lead to hydropneumopericardium including trauma, infections secondary to gas-producing bacilli, fistula formation, positive pressure ventilation or even spontaneously without an underlying cause in healthy adults and rarely after pericardiocentesis. We report an uncommon instance of hydropneumopericardium after pericardiocentesis in a 35-year-old man, which developed due to a leaky drainage system. It was immediately drained through the subxiphoid approach under echocardiographic guidance, and the patient was relieved. Hydropneumopericardium is an uncommon but easily diagnosable and avoidable complication of pericardiocentesis. It should be suspected whenever the patient develops increasing dyspnoea following a temporary relief by pericardiocentesis.

Purpose: To describe the epidemiology, outcomes, and temporal trends of respiratory failure in the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU). Materials and Methods: Retrospective cohort analysis of 2,986 unique Mayo Clinic CICU patients from 2007 to 2018 with respiratory failure. Temporal trends were analyzed, along with hospital and 1-year mortality. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine adjusted hospital mortality trends. Results: The prevalence of respiratory failure in the CICU increased from 15% to 38% during the study period ( P < 0.001 for trend). Among patients with respiratory failure, the utilization of invasive ventilation decreased and noninvasive ventilation modalities increased over time. Hospital mortality and 1-year mortality were 24% and 54%, respectively, with variation according to the type of respiratory support (highest among patients receiving invasive ventilation alone: 35% and 46%, respectively). Hospital mortality was highest among patients with concomitant cardiac arrest and/or shock (52% for patients with both). Hospital mortality decreased in the overall population from 35% to 25% ( P < 0.001 for trend), but was unchanged among patients receiving positive-pressure ventilation. Conclusions: The prevalence of respiratory failure in CICU more than doubled during the last decade. The use of noninvasive respiratory support increased, while overall mortality declined over time. Cardiac arrest and shock accounted for the majority of deaths. Further research is needed to optimize the outcomes of high-risk CICU patients with respiratory failure.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease has recently been gaining more attention, as beyond impacting roughly 10% of the world's population, it also carries high morbidity and mortality. The mainstay of management is optimizing pharmacological therapy, but various nonpharmacological therapies have shown benefits in providing symptom improvement and relief, prevention and mitigation of exacerbations, quality of life, and even mortality rate. Such modalities include supplemental oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, viral and bacterial vaccinations, and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation therapy.

Objectives To examine whether audio-voice guidance application improves adherence to resuscitation sequence and recommended time frames during neonatal resuscitation. Methods A prospective, randomized, pilot study examining the use of an audio-voice application for guiding resuscitation on newborn mannequins, based on the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) algorithm. Two different scenarios, with and without voice guidance, were presented to 20 medical personnel (2 midwives, 8 nurses, and 10 physicians) in random order, and their performance videotaped. Results Audio-voice guided resuscitation compared with non-guided resuscitation, resulted in significantly better compliance with NRP order sequence (p Conclusions In this pilot study, audio-voice guidance application for newborn resuscitation simulation on mannequins, based on the NRP algorithm, improved adherence and performance of NRP guidelines.

The number of patients experiencing prolonged mechanical ventilation is increasing over time. Patients who have a tracheostomy placed in a critical care setting have been described as having an average of 4 separate transitions between the acute care setting, long-term acute care (LTAC), and home. Transition points can be problematic if not addressed adequately; however, proactive planning can optimize patient care. Individual patient factors will determine if the patient will require long-term tracheostomy, transitioned to noninvasive positive pressure ventilation, or able to be decannulated. Patients and caregivers should be included in transition planning to optimize outcomes.

Background There is a large gap in the treatments for patients with COPD according to the Global Initiative for COPD (GOLD) recommendations. Determining the situation of therapies in the real world is necessary. This study aimed to characterize the real-world practical therapies of COPD and prognosis of patients after treatment for 1 year. Methods This study was a multicenter prospective observational study performed using a database set up by the Second Xiangya Hospital of Center South University. Detailed usage information for pharmacotherapies and nonpharmacotherapies for patients was collected, as well as the consistency of recommendations and patient adherence. Moreover, the effect of therapies after 1 year was calculated by comparing lung function and symptoms. Results Ultimately, 4,796 patients with COPD from 12 hospitals in China were eligible. LAMA (39.1%), LAMA + LABA/ICS (39.0%) and LABA/ICS (14.4%) were the top three inhalants. We found that 42.7% of Group A patients, 61.6% of Group B patients and 30% of Group C patients were following inappropriate therapy, especially overuse of ICS. Only 3.9% (95% CI 2.4, 5.4) of patients used oxygen therapy, and 1.8% (95% CI 1.5, 2.3) used noninvasive positive pressure ventilation at home. Among these patients, 33.2% had poor adherence. A total of 452 patients completed 1 year of follow-up. After 1 year of treatment, the lung function of FEV1/FVC decreased (P=0.001) and the mMRC score increased (P 0.05). Conclusion This study highlights a significant discrepancy between recommendations for managing patients with COPD in GOLD report, and in real-world clinical practice in China. Over-prescription of ICS and under-prescription of nonpharmacologic therapy were common. The adherence to treatment of patients was poor, and the real-life treatment effectiveness was unsatisfactory. More attention should be paid to the implementation of recommendations and standardized administration of therapies.

Invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) continues to be the most significant life support method. It is, however, coupled with many risks. Historically, concepts of MV did focus on improving the arterial blood gas results rather than preventing harmful side-effects of positive pressure ventilation. Since then, multiple studies exploring this matter emerged and led to the protective MV concept. The golden mean between assuring the best oxygenation and limiting the ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) is still a matter of debate. These considerations are especially impactful while treating patients with adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), where the limitation of MV’s negative effect is specifically important. This paper explores the protective ventilation concept and clinical implications of the latter.

OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine whether outcomes differed between infants enrolled in the PREMOD2 trial and those otherwise eligible but not enrolled, and whether the use of waiver effected these differences. STUDY DESIGN The multicenter PREMOD2 (PREmature infants receiving Milking Or Delayed cord clamping) trial was approved for waiver of antenatal consent by six of the nine sites institutional review boards, while three sites exclusively used antenatal consent. Every randomized subject delivered at a site with a waiver of consent was approached for postnatal consent to allow for data collection. Four of those six sites' IRBs required the study team to attempt antenatal consent when possible. Three sites exclusively used antenatal consent. RESULTS Enrolled subjects had higher Apgar scores, less use of positive pressure ventilation, a lower rate of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and a less frequent occurrence of the combined outcome of severe intraventricular hemorrhage or death. A significantly greater number of infants were enrolled at sites with an option of waiver of consent (66 vs. 26%, risk ratio = 2.54, p

As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses, awareness of uncommon presentations of the disease increases. Such is the case with pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum. Recent evidence suggested that these can occur in the context of COVID-19 pneumonia, even in the absence of mechanical ventilation–related barotrauma. We present two patients with COVID-19 pneumonia complicated by pneumomediastinum. The first patient was a 55-year-old woman who developed COVID-19 pneumonia. Her clinical course was complicated by pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum, and, unfortunately, she died 2 days following the admission. The second patient was a 31-year-old man who developed a small pneumomediastinum and was managed conservatively. He had a spontaneous resolution of the pneumomediastinum and was discharged 19 days later. None of our patients required invasive or noninvasive positive pressure ventilation. We performed a literature review of COVID-19 pneumonia cases that developed pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, or both. The analysis showed that the latter had high mortality (60%). Thus, it is necessary to pay attention to these complications as early identification and management can reduce the associated morbidity and mortality.

High-efficiency particulate air supplied to a positive-pressure ventilation lobby (PPVL) in isolation rooms offers the dual advantage of protective and source isolation. This study demonstrates the in-use validity of PPVL rooms for protective isolation of patients. Of the 48 PPVL air samples investigated, Aspergillus fumigatus was detected from only one (2%) sample. Local and remote monitoring of the PPVL rooms is essential for the safety of patients and healthcare workers. Remote and point-of-use engineering controls are essential for ongoing ventilation monitoring, but this should be complemented by visual inspection of the isolation suite. Periodic microbiological monitoring should also be considered with other control measures.

OBJECTIVE To provide a systematic review of liberation from positive pressure ventilation and mortality of children with chronic respiratory failure who used long-term invasive and noninvasive ventilation (LTV). METHODS Papers published from 1980 to 2018 were identified using Pubmed MEDLINE, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Search results were limited to English-language papers with (a) patients less than 22 years at initiation, (b) patients who used invasive ventilation (IV) via tracheostomy or noninvasive ventilation (NIV), and (c) data on mortality or liberation from LTV. Data were presented using descriptive statistics; changes in outcomes over time were explored using linear regression. Follow-up variability, cohort heterogeneity, and insufficient data precluded combining data to estimate incidences or rates. RESULTS One hundred and thirty papers with 12 704 patients were included. The median number of patients was 37 (interquartile range [IQR] 17-74, range 6-3802). Twenty-five percent of patients were initiated on IV; 75% on NIV. The maximum follow-up ranged from 0.5 to 31.8 years (median 8.8 years). The median proportion of patients liberated in these papers was 3% (IQR 0%-21%). The median proportion of mortality was 18% (IQR 8%-27%). Proportions of liberation and mortality did not significantly change over time. Progression of underlying disease (44%), respiratory illness (19%), and LTV accident (11%) were the most common causes of death. CONCLUSIONS These papers collectively show most patients survive for many years using LTV; in many subgroups, death is a more common outcome than liberation. However, the limitations of these papers preclude robust prognostication.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has spread rapidly throughout the world Its main transmission mechanisms are through droplets and by contact with contaminated surfaces At the in-hospital level, the formation of bioaerosols becomes important when carrying out therapeutic and diagnostic procedures, facilitating air transmission This condition could be associated with the significant number of deceased health officials Physical distancing, frequent hand washing, and permanent use of a mask are useful tools to control the disease Among the aerosol-generating procedures (PGAs) are endotracheal intubation, bronchoscopy, open aspiration of secretions, nebulizations, manual ventilation, prone positioning, disconnection of the mechanical ventilator, non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, tracheostomy and cardiopulmonary resuscitation The correct use of personal protection elements (PPE) and the realization of these in rooms with negative pressure or with frequent air changes considerably reduce the risk of becoming ill La pandemia del SARS-CoV-2 se ha diseminado rapidamente por el mundo Sus principales mecanismos de transmision son a traves de gotitas y por contacto con superficies contaminadas A nivel intrahospitalario, cobra importancia la formacion de bioaerosoles al realizar procedimientos terapeuticos y de diagnostico facilitando la transmision aerea Esta condicion podria estar asociada al importante numero de funcionarios de la salud fallecidos El distanciamiento fisico, el lavado frecuente de manos y el uso permanente de mascarilla son utiles herramientas para controlar la enfermedad Dentro de los procedimientos generadores de aerosoles (PGAs) estan la intubacion endotraqueal, broncoscopia, aspiracion abierta de secreciones, nebulizaciones, ventilacion manual, posicionamiento en prono, desconeccion del ventilador mecanico, ventilacion no invasiva a presion positiva, traqueostomia y reanimacion cardiopulmonar El uso correcto de los elementos de proteccion personal (EPP) y la realizacion de estos en salas con presion negativa o con recambios frecuentes del aire disminuyen considerablemente el riesgo de enfermar

Purpose of review Long-term noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIV) used to be a controversial form of therapy for patients with stable hypercapnic chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (SH-COPD). New evidence described in this review defines the optimal settings, timing and target population for NIV utilization in SH-COPD necessary to maximize its benefit. Recent findings NIV, when titrated appropriately, leads to improved clinical outcomes. High inspiratory positive airway pressures aimed at decreasing CO2 levels can ensure NIV success in SH-COPD. NIV initiated when patients remain hypercapnic whereas in a clinical stable state following an acute exacerbation can prolong the time to a readmission. Technological advances in NIV algorithms and remote monitoring have the potential to improve use and titration. NIV and portable NIV improve exercise tolerance and may accentuate the benefits derived from pulmonary rehabilitation alone. Summary Use of high-intensity NIV in SH-COPD is beneficial yet appropriate patient selection and implementation is paramount.

Background:Duchenne muscular dystrophy is associated with progressive cardiorespiratory failure, including left ventricular dysfunction.Methods and Results:Males with probable or definite diagnosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, diagnosed between 1 January, 1982 and 31 December, 2011, were identified from the Muscular Dystrophy Surveillance Tracking and Research Network database. Two non-mutually exclusive groups were created: patients with ≥2 echocardiograms and non-invasive positive pressure ventilation-compliant patients with ≥1 recorded ejection fraction. Quantitative left ventricular dysfunction was defined as an ejection fraction Conclusions:In our cohort, we observed that left ventricle function in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy declined over time, independent of non-invasive positive pressure ventilation use. Future studies are needed to examine the impact of respiratory support on cardiac function.

Since 1980, continuous positive airway pressure technology (CPAP) has been one of the most effective treatment methods for obstructive airway disease. About 10 years later, Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) had been developed with a more beneficial concept. CPAP and BiPAP are the most common forms of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV). CPAP administrates a single, constant, low-pressure air to maintain airway expansion throughout the respiratory cycle, while BiPAP gives high and low levels of pressure; one during inspiration (IPAP) and another during expiration (EPAP) to regulate breathing pattern and to keep airways expanded. Recently, much evidence suggests NIPPV in form of CPAP or BiPAP as a treatment option for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to improve blood gas abnormality and to reduce mortality rate, as well as to decrease the requirement of invasive mechanical ventilation and hospitalization. A guide for health care professionals released in 2019 has confirmed the use of NIPPV in COPD patients during exacerbation and if combined with obstructive sleep apnea. However, the treatment of stable COPD patients with hypercapnia or post-hospitalization COPD patients due to exacerbation with long term home NIPPV has not yet been adopted. Thus, COPD patient status and the timing of NIPPV delivery should be clearly evaluated. This mini review aims to show the role of NIPPV technology as an additional treatment option for patients suffering from COPD.

Goal: COSMIC Medical, a Vancouver-based open-source volunteer initiative, has designed an accessible, affordable, and aerosol-confining non-invasive positive-pressure ventilator (NIPPV) device, known as the COSMIC Bubble Helmet (CBH). This device is intended for COVID-19 patients with mild-to-moderate acute respiratory distress syndrome. System Design : CBH is composed of thermoplastic polyurethane, which creates a flexible neck seal and transparent hood. This device can be connected to wall oxygen, NIPPVs including Continuous Positive Airway Pressure and Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure, and mechanical ventilators. Discussion : Justification of CBH design components relied on several factors, predominantly the safety and comfort of patients and healthcare providers. Conclusion: CBH has implications within and outside of the pandemic, as an alternative to invasive mechanical ventilation methods. We have experimentally verified that CBH is effective in minimizing aerosolization risks and performs at specified clinical requirements.

Introduction: Rapid-onset obesity with hypothalamic dysfunction, hypoventilation, and autonomic dysregulation (ROHHAD) syndrome is an exceptionally rare clinical entity with significant morbidity and high mortality with challenging-to-treat hypoventilation. Case presentation: An 11-year-old morbidly obese Chinese female presented with a putative diagnosis of ROHHAD associated with a left psoas ganglioneuroma. Initial polysomnography showed severe obstructive sleep apnea and hypoventilation. She was not adherent to prescribed non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV). Echocardiography demonstrated evidence of pulmonary hypertension, likely secondary to chronic hypoventilation. With behavioral modification and trial of average volume-assured pressure support (AVAPS), adherence improved with eventual improvement of her pulmonary hypertension. Conclusion: AVAPS may improve ventilation and NIPPV adherence in central hypoventilation disorders such as ROHHAD, reducing risk of morbidity and mortality. Key words: Pulmonary hypertension; Hypoventilation; Positive pressure ventilation; sleep Apnea; Obstructive; Polysomnography; ROHHAD

NIV therapy is used to provide positive pressure ventilation for patients. There are protocols describing what ventilator settings to use to initialize NIV; however, the guidelines for titrating ventilator settings are less specific. We developed an advisory system to recommend NIV ventilator setting titration and recorded respiratory therapist agreement rates at the bedside. We developed an algorithm (NIV advisor) to recommend when to change the non-invasive ventilator settings of IPAP, EPAP, and FiO2 based on patient respiratory parameters. The algorithm utilized a multi-target approach; oxygenation, ventilation, and patient effort. The NIV advisor recommended ventilator settings to move the patient's respiratory parameters in a preferred target range. We implemented a pilot study evaluating the usability of the NIV advisor on 10 patients receiving critical care with non-invasive ventilation (NIV). Respiratory therapists were asked their agreement on recommendations from the NIV advisor at the patient's bedside. Bedside respiratory therapists agreed with 91% of the ventilator setting recommendations from the NIV advisor. The POB and VT values were the respiratory parameters that were most often out of the preferred target range. The IPAP ventilator setting was the setting most often considered in need of changing by the NIV advisor. The respiratory therapists agreed with the majority of the recommendations from the NIV advisor. We consider the IPAP recommendations informative in providing the respiratory therapist assistance in targeting preferred POB and Vt values, as these values were frequently out of the target ranges. This pilot implementation was unable to produce the results required to determine the value of the EPAP recommendations. The FiO2 recommendations from the NIV advisor were treated as ancillary information behind the IPAP recommendations.

During the COVID-19 pandemic the British Thoracic Society produced national guidance advising for all severe COVID-19 pneumonia (defining our inclusion criteria as clinico-radiological diagnosis, oxygen requirements >35%, continuous positive pressure ventilation or mechanical ventilation) to have 4–6-week follow-up with all COVID-19 patients having imaging at 12 weeks.1 To avoid duplication of work streams, the district general hospital developed a pathway liaising with ICU to ensure follow-up 4–6 weeks post discharge, chest x-ray at 12 weeks and follow-up telephone appointment at six months with the aim of discharging back to the community or referring for further investigations. In total we followed up 272 patients who were referred to our service.In the first wave (April 2020 - July 2020) we followed up 117 patients of whom 99 had a follow-up chest X-ray. Chest x-rays were performed on average 80.4 (43–140) days post discharge. Of these patients, 14% had residual changes, with 86% having a clinic normal chest X-ray, with 33 (28%) requiring referral for further investigation and respiratory physician follow-up due to breathlessness (quantified by Modified Medical Council Research dyspnoea score) identified at follow-up clinic appointments, on average 168.4 (91–209) days post discharge.In the second wave (October 2020 – April 2021) we followed up 155 patients of whom 133 had a chest x-ray and 51 (38%) had residual changes. Chest x-rays were performed on average 88.7 (32–120) days post discharge and follow-up clinic appointments were on average 150.9 (92–172) days post discharge. Only 35 patients have been followed up to date (the remaining having not reached 6-months post discharge). Of these 15 (42.8%) required onwards referral for further investigation.This data shows that we have run a robust follow-up service for severe COVID-19 pneumonia patients. It is important that we think carefully about who is referred for further respiratory investigations as our data shows that chest x-ray resolution does not necessarily correlate with resolution of symptoms, and the implication for NHS services.British Thoracic Society. British Thoracic Society Guidance on Respiratory Follow Up of Patients with a Clinico-Radiological Diagnosis of COVID-19 Pneumonia [V1.2], 2020. https://www.brit-thoracic.org.uk/document-library/quality-improvement/covid-19/resp-follow-up-guidance-post-covid-pneumonia/

Background: Assessment of heart rate (HR) is essential during newborn resuscitation, and comparison of dry-electrode ECG technology to standard monitoring by 3-lead ECG and Pulse Oximetry (PO) is lacking. Methods: NeoBeat, ECG, and PO were applied to newborns resuscitated at birth. Resuscitations were video recorded, and HR was registered every second. Results: Device placement time from birth was median (quartiles) 6 (4, 18) seconds for NeoBeat versus 138 (97, 181) seconds for ECG and 152 (103, 216) seconds for PO. Time to first HR presentation from birth was 22 (13, 45) seconds for NeoBeat versus 171 (129, 239) seconds for ECG and 270 (185, 357) seconds for PO. Proportion of time with HR feedback from NeoBeat during resuscitation from birth was 85 (69, 93)%, from arrival at the resuscitation table 98 (85, 100)%, and during positive pressure ventilation 100 (95, 100)%. For ECG, these proportions were, 25 (0, 43)%, 28 (0, 56)%, and 33 (0, 66)% and for PO, 0 (0, 16)%, 0 (0, 16)%, and 0 (0, 18)%. All p < 0.0001. Conclusions: NeoBeat was faster to place, presented HR more rapidly, and provided feedback on HR for a larger proportion of time during ongoing resuscitation compared to 3-lead ECG and PO.

The real-world evidence has been sparse on the impact of non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) on the outcomes in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) patients. We aim to explore this issue in the prospective multicenter WET-HF registry. Among 3927 patients (77 (67–84) years, male 60%), the NPPV was used in 775 patients (19.7%). The association of NPPV use with in-hospital outcome and length of hospital stay (LOS) was examined by two methods, propensity score (PS) matching and multivariable analysis with adjustment for PS. In these analyses the NPPV group exhibited a lower endotracheal intubation (ETI) rate and a comparable in-hospital mortality, but longer LOS compared to the non-NPPV group. In the stratified analysis, the NPPV group exhibited a significantly lower ETI rate in patients with ischemic etiology, systolic blood pressure (sBP) &gt, 140 mmHg and the Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score ≤ 3, indicating better nutritional status. On the contrary, NPPV use was associated with longer LOS in patients with non-ischemic etiology, sBP &lt, 100 mmHg and CONUT score &gt, 3. In conclusion, NPPV use was associated with a lower incidence of ETI. Particularly, patients with ischemic etiology, high sBP, and better nutritional status might benefit from NPPV use.

BACKGROUND There is a rare need for postoperative non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) following microvascular reconstruction of the head and neck. In midface reconstruction, the free flap vascular pedicle is especially vulnerable to the compressive forces of positive pressure delivery. CASE A 60 year old female with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) presented with squamous cell carcinoma of the anterior maxilla, for which she underwent infrastructure maxillectomy and fibula free flap reconstruction. To avoid tracheotomy, the patient was extubated postoperatively and transitioned to NIPPV immediately utilizing a full-face positive pressure mask with a soft and flexible sealing layer. The patient was successfully transitioned to NIPPV immediately after extubation. The free flap exhibited no signs of vascular compromise postoperatively, and healed very well. CONCLUSION Postoperative non-invasive positive pressure ventilation can be successfully applied following complex microvascular midface reconstruction to avoid tracheotomy in select patients without vascular compromise of the free flap.

Modern use of positive pressure ventilation originated in the early 1950s, when it was recognized that supportive care with endotracheal tubes and manual ventilation with an inflated rubber bag could dramatically reduce the mortality of polio-induced respiratory failure. Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) complicate the intensive care unit stays of up to 10% of mechanically ventilated patients, resulting in prolonged stays, increased mortality, as well as approximately $40,000 of added healthcare costs per patient. An understanding of the pathophysiology of VAPs has been paramount to the development of prevention strategies. The mutually inclusive nature of many VAP prevention strategies supports the bundling of several approaches together into quality improvement initiatives designed to reduce VAP rates further than any one intervention alone. Successful VAP treatment relies on prompt diagnosis with empiric antibiotic therapy targeting the most likely pathogens, followed by appropriate tailoring of antibiotics to minimize the risk of antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic-associated complications.

A helmet, comprising a transparent hood and a soft collar, surrounding the patient’s head can be used to deliver noninvasive ventilatory support, both as continuous positive airway pressure and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV), the latter providing active support for inspiration. In this review, we summarize the technical aspects relevant to this device, particularly how to prevent CO2 rebreathing and improve patient–ventilator synchrony during NPPV. Clinical studies describe the application of helmets in cardiogenic pulmonary oedema, pneumonia, COVID-19, postextubation and immune suppression. A section is dedicated to paediatric use. In summary, helmet therapy can be used safely and effectively to provide NIV during hypoxemic respiratory failure, improving oxygenation and possibly leading to better patient-centred outcomes than other interfaces. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13054-021-03746-8.

Transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) is a frequently used technique to remove pituitary adenomas. Rare complications of TSS include development of postoperative pneumocephalus. Many patients undergoing TSS also suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and thus require positive pressure ventilation. The exact timing of when to safely reintroduce the CPAP machine in this subset of patients is presently not exactly known but is most often cited as being two to four weeks postoperatively. In this case, we describe the story of a 69-year-old female who underwent TSS for a nonsecreting pituitary adenoma in April 2012 and went on to develop pneumocephalus five weeks postoperatively after reintroduction of her CPAP machine. This is the latest presentation of pneumocephalus after reintroduction of CPAP documented in present literature. The case reopens the debate as to how many weeks postoperatively positive pressure ventilation should be withheld to prevent the development of pneumocephalus in patients having undergone TSS with simultaneous OSA.

BackgroundHome noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) have become evidence-based care for stable hypercapnic chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. There are still other challenges including appropriate follow-up, telemonitor and management to ensure treatment effectiveness, compliance and security, and to improve quality of life. The Internet of Things (IOT) is the name given to the network of devices and other “things” with built-in sensors, software, electronics and network connectivity, communicating these objects over wireless networks and sending data to a cloud platform. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the IOT-based management of NIPPV for the COPD patients with hypercapnic chronic respiratory failure.MethodsThis multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial will be conducted with a total of 200 COPD patients with chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure. Using a computer-generated randomization process, patients will be randomized (in a 1:1 ratio) into usual NIPPV (control group) or to receive additional IOT-based management (intervention group) for 12 months. The primary outcome is Severe Respiratory Insufficiency (SRI) questionnaire. Secondary outcomes include compliance with the ventilator, gas exchange, lung function, Health-related Quality of Life, hospitalization frequency, time to death within 1-year, all-cause mortality, safety analysis and cost-effectiveness analysis.DiscussionThis study will be the first and largest randomized trial in China to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the IOT-based management of NIPPV for COPD patients with chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure. The results will help to understand the current situation of IOT based home ventilation and may provide new evidence for home NIPPV treatment and management in the future.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trials Registry ChiCTR1800019536. Registered 17 November, 2018.

Background The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a recent viral outbreak that has rapidly spread to multiple countries worldwide. Little is known about COVID-19 infection-related complications. Case Report We report a patient who developed spontaneous bilateral pneumothorax after a recent COVID-19 infection. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of spontaneous bilateral pneumothorax in a patient with recent confirmed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 infection without any risk factors for pneumothorax and who had not received positive pressure ventilation. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This? There may be a possible correlation between a recent COVID-19 infection and the development of spontaneous pneumothorax. The diagnosis of spontaneous pneumothorax should be considered in any patient with known or suspected recent COVID-19 infection who presents with new acute symptoms consistent with pneumothorax or sudden clinical deterioration.

A 26-year-old woman presenting for an elective day case procedure under general anaesthesia had undiagnosed subglottic stenosis leading to a life threatening airway emergency requiring emergency front-of-neck airway. We outline the case and discuss key anaesthetic considerations in subglottic stenosis, including concerning features of a medical/anaesthetic history and the potential for rapid deterioration of a stenotic airway following manipulation. We also consider the effect of anaesthesia on the calibre of subglottic stenosis and the effects of positive pressure ventilation. Subglottic stenosis is a rare condition with congenital, acquired and idiopathic origins; however, iatrogenic trauma is the most common cause. We are aware of a small number of published case reports of previously undiagnosed subglottic stenosis in adults discovered after induction of anaesthesia; situational deterioration to 'cannot intubate, cannot oxygenate' scenarios appear even rarer.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background The high flow nasal cannula oxygen (HFNC) may offer an alternative to invasive and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) in patients with acute pulmonary edema (APE) with theoretical advantages related with patient adaptation, comfort and lower need of staff training to achieve optimal therapy. However, clinical efficacy and safety of HFNC is not well established. We aimed to compare the in-hospital clinical outcomes between NIPPV and HFNC in patients without hypercapnia as initial treatment of acute pulmonary edema (APE). Methods In a prospective, observational study, 47 patients treated with HFNC or NIPPV as initial treatment of no-hypercapnic APE were included. Primary endpoint was the composite of death or need for orotracheal intubation within 30 days after admission. Results 47 patients (mean [±SD] age 68.8± 13.1 years, 83% man) were included. 28 (59.6%) patients received HFNC and 19 (40.4%) NIPPV- CPAP as initial treatment to APE. De novo acute heart failure was the initial presentation in 76,6% and 61,7% was secondary to acute coronary syndrome. There was no significant difference in 30-days mortality rates or composite objective of death/intubation in HFNC vs NIPPV (21.5 vs 15.8 p = 0.72) and (37.0 vs 21.1% p= 0.24). However the failure of therapy defined as the combined objective of intubation or change of therapy due to respiratory worsening was more frequent (40.7 vs 15.8 p = 0.07) in HFNC group. Conclusion The HFNC was not associated with increased 30-day mortality in patients with no-hypercapnic EAP, but was associated with no-significant increase of treatment failure secondary to respiratory worsening, despite comparable disease severity and initial treatment. Randomized studies are needed Ends points comparing NIPPV and HFNCVariableOverall (n = 47)CPAP/NIPPVN = 19HFNCn = 28P valueDeath at 30 days (%)19.115.821.50.72Respiratory infection after 48 hours of admission (%)15.226.37.40.107Intubation at 30 days (%)23.915.829.60.32Death or intubation 30 days (%)30.421.137.00.24Intubation or change therapy for worsening RD (%)30.440.715.80.07Length hospital stay (days)11.8 ± 10.912.06 ± 9.611.7 ± 11.80.65Length critical care unit stay(days)5.87 ± 6.86.9 ± 7.25.1 ± 6.50.24RD Respiratory distress

RESUMEN Objetivo: determinar la adherencia global y por componentes a la estrategia minuto de oro en médicos que atienden recién nacidos en una entidad de mediano nivel de complejidad. Materiales y métodos: estudio de corte transversal; se incluyeron recién nacidos vivos de partos vaginales espontáneos atendidos por médicos pediatras, ginecólogos o internos en sala de partos de un hospital universitario de la ciudad de Cali, Colombia, en el 2017. Se excluyeron fetos con mal- formaciones congénitas mayores, gemelares y con menos de 34 semanas de edad gestacional. Muestreo sistemático. Tamaño muestral: 150 recién nacidos. Se evaluaron las características basales de los recién nacidos y sus madres, y la adherencia a la estrategia minuto de oro y sus componentes. Se hizo análisis descriptivo. Resultados: la adherencia al minuto de oro en médicos pediatras fue del 65,6 % (IC 95 %: 53,8-78,4), en ginecobstetras, de 33,33 % (IC 95 %: 4,3-77,7), y en médicos internos, de 75,3 % (IC 95 %: 64,8- 85,1). La menor frecuencia se dio en la colocación del gorro al recién nacido, 64,90 % (IC 95 %: 56,7- 72,4), y poner al bebé piel a piel sobre la madre, 65 % (IC 95 %: 55,9-74,4); la mayor frecuencia se presentó en cubrir al recién nacido con paños calientes, 98,6 % (IC 95 %: 95,3-99,8), y la ventilación con presión positiva en los casos en los que no había respuesta a la estimulación inicial, 100 % (IC 95 %: 30-100). Conclusiones: los resultados obtenidos sobre el grado de adherencia de los profesionales sugieren la necesidad de realizar procesos continuos de educación y evaluación sobre la aplicación de esta estrategia de reconocida efectividad en las institu- ciones que ofrecen el servicio de atención de partos. ABSTRACT Objective: To determine adherence, overall and by components, to the Helping Babies Breathe strategy by physicians caring for neonates in an intermediate complexity institution. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study that included live neonates born by spontaneous vaginal delivery and who received care from pediatricians, gynecologists or interns in the delivery room of a university hospital in the city of Cali, Colombia, in 2017. Fetuses with major congenital malformations, twins, and neonates with less than 34 weeks of gestational age were excluded. Sampling was systematic and the sample size was of 150 neonates. Baseline neonatal and maternal characteristics were assessed, as well as adherence to the Helping Babies Breathe strategy and its components. A descriptive analysis was performed. Results: Adherence to the Helping Babies Breathe was 65.6% (95% CI 53.8-78.4) for pediatricians, 33.33% (95% CI: 4,3-77,7) for obstetricians and gynecologists, and 75.3% (95% CI: 64,8-85,1) for interns. The lowest frequency was found for cap placement on the neonate’s head, 64.90% (95% CI: 56.7-72.4), and placement of the baby in contact with the mother’s skin, 65% (95% CI: 55.9-74.4); the highest frequency was found for covering the baby with warm blankets, 98,6% (95% CI: 95.3-99.8), and positive pressure ventilation in those cases of absent response to initial stimulation, 100% (95% CI 30-100). Conclusions: Results pertaining to the degree of adherence on the part of the practitioners suggest the need to implement continuous education and evaluation processes focused on the application of this strategy which has been shown to be effective in institutions offering childbirth care.

Background: As new gene-related treatment options for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) are being developed, precise information about the patients’ genetic diagnosis and knowledge about the diversities of natural history in DMD is vital. Objective: To obtain detailed insight into the genetic and clinical characteristics of paediatric DMD in Norway. Methods: 94 boys with DMD, aged 0–18 years, were identified over a period of 3.5 years, yielding a national prevalence of 13.5×10–5 boys. 73 boys (78%) were recruited to full genetic and clinical or limited (genetic only) evaluation. Results: Molecular analysis disclosed 64% deletions, 18% duplications and 18% point mutations. The mean age of diagnosis was 3.9±2.0 years. 78% were treated with glucocorticoids from age 5.8±1.5 years. 23 boys (35%) had lost ambulation at an age of 10.7±2.0 years. 17% were treated for left ventricular dysfunction from age 12.1±3.0 years and 12% had received night-time non-invasive positive pressure ventilation from age 13.0±2.5 years. Conclusions: The distribution of mutation types and sites was similar to previous studies but with more duplications and fewer point mutations. Any genotype-phenotype correlations were not uncovered. The boys were diagnosed early but there is still diagnostic delay among boys presenting with late motor development. Glucocorticoid treatment was widespread, especially among the younger boys. The clinical results of this comprehensive nationwide study highlight the large variability of disease progression in DMD.

PURPOSE Consensus articles that explore rehabilitation exercise for heart failure (HF) mainly focus on stable patients with chronic HF. Results from investigations that focus on the relationship between clinical outcomes and exercise during rehabilitation of patients with acute heart failure (AHF) have produced insufficient data. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between clinical outcomes and dyspnea during in-hospital early rehabilitation in patients with AHF. METHODS Dyspnea was measured using a 5-point Likert scale (5PLS) during rest and at the initiation of upright sitting and standing. Dyspnea was defined as 5PLS ≥2. The primary endpoint was combined all-cause death or rehospitalization for HF. RESULTS A total of 221 patients were included in this study; 81 patients (37%) died or were hospitalized during the follow-up period. In patients with dyspnea during upright sitting and standing, the event-free ratio was significantly lower compared with patients without dyspnea (P = .008 and P < .001, respectively). Body mass index (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.91, P = .011), noninvasive positive pressure ventilation usage (HR = 1.96, P = .042), and 5PLS ≥2 at the initiation of standing (HR = 2.63, P = .008) were detected as predictors of primary endpoint. New York Heart Association class IV at admission (OR = 3.17, P = .0114) and pre-admission Katz ADL index

Background Myocardial deformation imaging using speckle-tracking echocardiography to assess global longitudinal strain (GLS) is today considered a more sensitive measure of left ventricular (LV) systolic function than ejection fraction. General anesthesia and positive pressure ventilation (PPV) are known to change the right ventricular (RV) and LV loading conditions. However, little is known about the effects of anesthesia and PPV on RV free wall and LV GLS. We studied the influence of general anesthesia and PPV on RV and LV longitudinal strain in patients without myocardial disease. Methods Twenty-one patients scheduled for non-cardiac surgery were included. The baseline examination was performed on the un-premedicated patients within 60 min of anesthesia. The second examination was performed 10–15 min after induction of anesthesia (propofol, remifentanil), intubation and start of PPV. The examinations included apical four-, two- and three-chamber projections, mitral and aortic Doppler flow velocities and tissue Doppler velocities of tricuspid and mitral annulus. LV end-systolic elastance (Ees) and aortic elastance were determined (Ea). Results General anesthesia and PPV reduced the mean arterial blood pressure (− 29%, p − 16% compared with 6 patients (28%) during general anesthesia and PPV. Three patients (14%) had a RV free wall strain > − 24% compared to 8 patients (38%) during general anesthesia and PPV. Conclusions General anesthesia and PPV reduces systolic LV and RV function to levels considered indicating dysfunction in a substantial proportion of patients without myocardial disease.

Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) is undoubtedly one of the most significant advancements in mechanical ventilation technology in the past 30 years. With accumulating evidence from clinical studies and support from clinical guidelines, NPPV is now widely used in hospitals and increasingly prescribed for home therapy in the Asia-Pacific region. However, in comparison with the developed Western countries, overall use of NPPV in the region is lagging behind. This study reviews this imbalance of NPPV use both in the acute and domiciliary settings in the Asia-Pacific region. Important issues related to NPPV use are also discussed along with speculation around potential strategies that could promote wider implementation of NPPV in the region. We hope this review will stimulate interest in the clinical application and potential research avenues for NPPV in the Asia-Pacific region, and promote education and staff training in the technique.

Highlights • The main complication of PLCH is the occurrence of pneumothorax (PTX) and tension bullae with subsequent recurrence and persistence despite conservative management. • Although it is difficult to treat recurrent PTX and tension bullae in advanced PLCH, continuous treatment of the primary disease (LCH) and the complications of pulmonary lesions can improve prognosis. • Positive-pressure ventilation should be performed with extreme caution in suspected PLCH., Introduction Pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis (PLCH) is a well known entity in adults but is exceedingly rare in children. The main complication of PLCH is the occurrence of pneumothorax (PTX) and tension bullae with subsequent recurrence and persistence despite conservative management. Case presentation A 3-year-old child was diagnosed with PLCH with thyroid involvement. Chemotherapy was immediately initiated and continued with chest tube drainage for repeated bilateral PTX. Tension bullae developed in the right lung 1 month after initiating treatment. Emergency resection of the bullae and ligation of pulmonary cysts were performed. On the tenth postoperative day, she developed a tension bulla in the left lung. Emergency thoracotomy was performed. On the tenth postoperative day, chest X-ray and CT suggested return of the right bulla and mediastinal shift, and reoperation was performed. Repeated lung biopsy showed no sign of active LCH. Although her condition improved after the operation, subsequent repeated PTXs occurred and were difficult to treat. She was discharged home after four months. Currently, she is receiving maintenance therapy as an outpatient. During the 12-month follow-up, the pulmonary lesions also showed a tendency for improvement. Discussion Although it is difficult to treat recurrent PTX and tension bullae in advanced PLCH, continuous treatment of the primary disease (LCH) and the complications of pulmonary lesions can improve prognosis. Conclusion Treatment of PLCH accompanied by recurrent PTX and tension bullae is challenging. The condition can be resolved by treating the primary disease in parallel with combined modality treatment, including surgical operation for complications.

Key Clinical Message In our case reports, we mentioned about the utility of NPPV therapy in addition to standard pharmacologic therapy for acute asthma exacerbations in pregnant women with dyspnea and hypoxemia compared with that of oxygen therapy alone. Careful patient selection and clinicians’ NPPV experience are crucial in optimizing patient outcomes.

Background Tracheostomy is associated with negative effects on voice, speech, and feeding/swallowing. Speaking valves have beneficial effects in these areas but are often contra-indicated in children with airway problems due to high transtracheal pressure (TTP). Valves are modified by drilling to reduce excessive TTP. We hypothesized that a standardized approach to assessment and valve modification by drilling improves valve tolerance and allows widespread successful use. Methods Following development of a standardized multidisciplinary protocol for patient selection, valve modification and valve prescription at our center, we retrospectively collected information from clinical notes relating to clinical indication and medical history of all children undergoing speaking valve assessment from February 2014 to June 2017. We designed a questionnaire which was delivered to the parents of children receiving both modified and standard valves enquiring about voice, feeding, communication, and suctioning. Results Data on 45 children were collected. Thirteen had normal TTP and were given standard valves and 32 had high TTP, all of whom had their valves modified resulting in good tolerance. 17 Children were on positive pressure ventilation at the time of placement. The survey response rate was 83%. Parents report a high degree of satisfaction with modified valves and report positive effects in terms of voice, speech, and feeding/swallowing similar to those reported for standard valves. Conclusions Speaking valves can be successfully and safely modified in children, providing valves to many patients previously deemed unsuitable. We report positive parental experiences of these modified valves in line with those reported with standard valves.