Mouthpiece ventilation in neuromuscular disorders: Narrative review of technical issues important for clinical success.

In neuromuscular disorders (NMDs), nocturnal non-invasive ventilation (NIV) via a nasal mask is offered when hypercapnic respiratory failure occurs. With disease progression, nocturnal NIV needs to be extended into the daytime. Mouthpiece ventilation (MPV) is an option for daytime NIV.

Passive Versus Active Circuit During Invasive Mechanical Ventilation in Subjects With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.

Background: Until recently, it has been considered essential to maintain the use of a double-limb circuit in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to avoid rebreathing expired air during invasive mechanical ventilation. Currently, life-sustaining home ventilators can work with a single, lighter circuit that is easier to manage. Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a single-limb circuit with intentional leaks (passive circuit) in comparison with a circuit with an expiratory valve (active circuit), in subjects with ALS who use invasive home ventilation.

Comparing airways clearance techniques in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchiectasis: positive expiratory pressure or temporary positive expiratory pressure? A retrospective study.

Background: Airway clearance techniques include positive expiratory pressure, commonly used in our clinical practice, and a recently introduced temporary positive expiratory pressure device called UNIKO. It is unclear which one provides the best benefit to patients.

Objectives: The aim of this observational 4-year study was to retrospectively compare the efficacy of and specific indications for temporary positive expiratory pressure compared to positive expiratory pressure in a standard rehabilitation program.