Pediatric Acute Respiratory Failure
摘要
Biphasic cuirass ventilation (BCV) represents a truly distinct approach to other non-invasive ventilation. By applying negative pressure to the entire chest wall, BCV can reproduce a physiological breathing pattern that masks or intubation simply cannot be achieved. In clinical practice, we often see rapid improvements in oxygenation and relief of dyspnea within an hour. With increased tidal volume and reduced respiratory effort, children who were exhausted often regain their easy breathing and calmness. Another unique benefit of BCV is its ability to mobilize secretions by vibrating the entire chest wall, leading to enhanced sputum clearance and reduced risk of airway obstruction. This effect is particularly striking in patients with thorax deformities. Clinical studies have also reported rapid gas exchange improvement, shorter duration of mechanical ventilation, and even avoidance of hospitalization. In fact, BCV has been successfully applied in cases of acute asthma or bronchiolitis in the outpatient setting, preventing admission altogether. In other words, BCV provides direct benefits such as avoiding emergency medical transport and preventing intubation. Although attention must be paid to skin irritation and hypothermia, BCV with proper management has a high level of safety. For pediatric acute respiratory insufficiency, BCV may well be considered an emerging option with the great potential to change conventional respiratory support.