Biphasic Cuirass Ventilation (BCV): Ethics, Palliative Medicine, and Quality of Life
摘要
Noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV), particularly Biphasic Cuirass Ventilation (BCV), is increasingly used in palliative care to relieve dyspnea and enhance comfort in terminally ill patients who refuse invasive support. While BCV can improve quality of life and reduce anxiety, its use raises ethical concerns, especially if it is perceived as prolonging the dying process or contradicting a patient’s wish to avoid life-sustaining interventions. Ethical decisions must consider patient autonomy, comfort, and dignity, with ongoing dialogue among patients, families, and healthcare teams. The dynamic nature of palliative care demands flexible goals and periodic reevaluation of treatment preferences. Family beliefs shaped by religion, culture, past experiences, and emotions play a key role in decision-making. The doctrine of double effect (DDE) is often cited to ethically justify palliative sedation, even if it might unintentionally hasten death. Ultimately, open communication and a structured ethical framework are essential to guiding BCV use in alignment with patient-centered care goals, ensuring that interventions alleviate suffering without compromising dignity.