Expanding Roles for Noninvasive Ventilation in Perioperative Care

Abstract

Over the past several years, less invasive methods of providing ventilatory support have arisen to help support patients with respiratory insufficiency and airway obstruction. The application of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in these situations can provide short- to medium-term aid for certain patient populations without introducing the risks associated with endotracheal intubation. In this article, we review the basics of NIV, discuss the accepted indications for NIV in the ICU, explore the perioperative indications for NIV, including use in patients with obstructive sleep apnea, and finally, provide practical tips for implementing NIV in the ICU and anesthesia recovery areas.