Impact of ventilation strategies during chest compression. An experimental study with clinical observations.

The optimal ventilation strategy during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is unknown. Chest compression (CC) generates circulation, while during decompression, thoracic recoil generates negative pressure and venous return. Continuous flow insufflation of oxygen (CFI) allows noninterrupted CC and generates positive airway pressure (Paw).

Respiratory physiotherapy to prevent pulmonary complications after abdominal surgery: a systematic review.

Objectives: To examine the efficacy of respiratory physiotherapy for prevention of pulmonary complications after abdominal surgery.

Methods: We searched in databases and bibliographies for articles in all languages through November 2005. Randomized trials were included if they investigated prophylactic respiratory physiotherapy and pulmonary outcomes, and if the follow-up was at least 2 days.

Factors associated with failure of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation in the emergency department.

Objectives: To determine the factors associated with failure of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) in patients presenting with acute respiratory failure to the emergency department (ED).

Methods: The authors retrospectively analyzed patients admitted to the ED for acute respiratory failure (defined as a PaCO2 level >45 mm Hg, and pH < or = 7.35 or a PaO2/FiO2 ratio < 250 mm Hg) and who were treated with NPPV.

Continuous positive airway pressure versus noninvasive pressure support ventilation to treat atelectasis after cardiac surgery.

Atelectasis is common after cardiac surgery and may result in impaired gas exchange. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is often used to prevent or treat postoperative atelectasis. We hypothesized that noninvasive pressure support ventilation (NIPSV) by increasing tidal volume could improve the evolution of atelectasis more than CPAP.