Survey of bi-level continuous positive airway pressure in UK neonatal units.

Abstract

Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is being utilised more frequently to reduce the need for invasive ventilation within the neonatal population. An example of one mode of NIV is bi-level continuous positive airway pressure (BiPAP). BiPAP delivers a lower pressure (usually 4-6 cm H2 O) interchanging with a higher-level pressure, which is conventionally set 3-5 cm H2 O above the basal pressure 1,2 . The provision of two alternating pressures may offer benefits beyond the sole provision of a basal pressure, as in continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) ventilation.