Background: There are only small experiences with mechanical ventilation via nasal mask in childhood.
Patients and methods: Eleven patients using NIPPV (9 patients aged 4 to 18 years and 2 patients with cystic fibrosis aged 20 and 25 years).
Results: NIPPV was effective in all 11 patients. Seven patients needed supplemental oxygen. Theophyllin, Almitrin and Salbutamol could support the nasal ventilation in special conditions.
Conclusion: Intermittent ventilation via nasal mask is a noninvasive and effective treatment of chronic respiratory failure in childhood. Monitoring with continuous pulse-oximetry is necessary.