Noninvasive pressure support ventilation: physiological and clinical results in patients with COPD and acute respiratory failure.

Noninvasive ventilation may bring considerable benefits in the treatment of acute respiratory failure, especially in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Reduction in the need for endotracheal intubation has been well-documented. In selected groups a reduction in morbidity, mortality, and length of hospital stay have been demonstrated. The efficacy of the technique is very dependent on the skill and motivation of the team.