Noninvasive ventilation in pediatric acute respiratory failure by means of a conventional volumetric ventilator.

Background: Acute respiratory failure (ARF) is one of the main causes for admission to pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and outcome of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) by a volumetric ventilator with a specific mode in pediatric acute respiratory failure.

Methods: A three-year prospective non-controlled study was undertaken in children with ARF who had received NIV delivered by Evita 2 Dura with NIV mode through a nonvented oronasal mask.