Original Article


The application of bi-level positive airway pressure in patients with severe pneumonia and acute respiratory failure caused by influenza A (H1N1) virus

Wei Liu, Shucheng Hua, Liping Peng

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of noninvasive Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) ventilation on the severe influenza A virus associated with pneumonia and acute respiratory failure (ARF).
Methods: Based on conventional therapy via face mask using BiPAP ventilator positive airway pressure ventilation in the treatment of severe pneumonia caused by influenza A (H1N1) virus with acute respiratory failure (ARF) in 18 cases, we observed and evaluated the therapeutic effects.
Results: PaO2 and SaO2 before and after treatment were (48.85 ± 12.15)mmHg, (68.56 ± 16.25) mmHg and (80 ± 6)%, (92 ± 5)%, respectively. The results were significantly different (P<0.05) before and after treatment. Endotracheal intubation rate was 25% (6/24) and case-fatality rate was 8.3% (2/24).
Conclusion: BiPAP ventilator airway pressure by face mask ventilation can reduce the rate of endotracheal intubation in the treatment of severe pneumonia caused by influenza A (H1N1) virus in acute respiratory failure. It could be an effective approach in the emergency treatment with clinical value.

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