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Review
. 2018 Sep 4:8:55-61.
doi: 10.2147/DNND.S170771. eCollection 2018.

Continuous noninvasive ventilation for respiratory failure in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: current perspectives

Giuseppe Fiorentino  1 , Anna Annunziata  1 , Anna Michela Gaeta  2 , Maurizia Lanza  1 , Antonio Esquinas  3
Affiliations
Review

Continuous noninvasive ventilation for respiratory failure in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: current perspectives

Giuseppe Fiorentino et al. Degener Neurol Neuromuscul Dis. .

Abstract

Respiratory failure is a recognized late complication of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It is related to the neurological progression of the diseases with the impairment of the respiratory musculature. Survival and quality of life of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients is improved by using noninvasive mechanical ventilation. The rate of long-term mechanical ventilation is different within and between countries. Cultural factors, socioeconomic conditions, and physician attitude often influence the decision to start noninvasive ventilation. Technical elements, like the choice of the correct interface, solid caregivers support, and the communication between the patient and the physician are essential for achieving therapeutic goals, especially in the case of continuous treatment.

Keywords: adherence; amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; interface; mouthpiece ventilation; noninvasive ventilation; quality of life; respiratory failure.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
A patient with ALS in NIV during activities of daily life. Abbreviations: ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; NIV, noninvasive ventilation.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Severe nasal decubitus.
Figure 3
Figure 3
ALS patient in long-term mechanical ventilation treated with total face mask. Abbreviation: ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Figure 4
Figure 4
ALS patient during MPV with arm attached to the bed. Abbreviations: ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; MPV, mouthpiece ventilation.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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