Noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation in patients with acute respiratory failure.

This article provides a systematic review of the literature on the application of noninvasive ventilation in various forms of hypercapnic and hypoxemic respiratory failures. A description of the underlying pathophysiology is followed by a review of physiologic data explaining the mechanisms of action of noninvasive ventilation. A critical review of clinical studies is presented with specific suggestions. The methodology of correctly implementing and monitoring noninvasive ventilation in patients with acute respiratory failure, critical to success, is detailed.