The utility value of ROX index and modified ROX index in determining the efficiency of HFNC in children admitted with respiratory distress

Background: The ROX index is defined as the ratio of SpO2/FiO2 to respiratory rate. The modified ROX index or ROX-HR index is defined as the ratio of ROX index/heart rate�0. The aim of the study was to determine the utility of the ROX index and the modified ROX index as predictors of initiation and efficiency of HFNC in children admitted with respiratory distress.Methods: This prospective observational study included 133 children with respiratory distress, who received HFNC. The ROX index, and modified ROX index were measured, and outcomes were recorded.Results: Total number of study subjects were 133. Statistically significant increase was seen in ROX index and modified ROX index at follow up (p value<0.05). Interpretation of the area under the ROC curve showed that the performance of ROX index and modified ROX index at �hour was outstanding. ROX Index and modified ROX Index at a Cut-off of ?4.7959 and ?2.5579 respectively at initiation i. e.; at �hour predicted HFNC requirement. In prediction of HFNC requirement ROX index at �hour had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 88.24%, 87.84%, 93%, and 80.2% respectively, and modified ROX index had 78.68%, 93.24%, 95.5%, and 70.4% respectively. Low ROX and modified ROX indices at �hour predicted prolonged ICU and hospital stays, as well as extended HFNC duration.Conclusions: Both ROX index, and modified ROX index were good predictors of HFNC requirement.

Comparison of the effectiveness of different high-flow devices in neonatal care

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the success rate of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy using an adapted obsolete mechanical ventilator (MV), Optiflow™ and Vapotherm™ in newborns (NBs). Method: This was a retrospective observational study conducted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The sample comprised NBs who underwent HFNC therapy due to ventilatory dysfunction, for weaning from non-invasive ventilation (NIV), or post-extubation. The three groups, stratified according to gestational age (GA) and birth weight, and corrected GA and weight at the beginning of HFNC use, were as follows: Optiflow ™, Vapotherm ™, and obsolete Mechanical Ventilator (MV) adapted for high flow therapy. Subsequently, the NBs were divided into a success group (SG) and a failure group (FG). HFNC success was defined as a therapy duration exceeding 72 h. Results: A total of 209 NBs were evaluated, with 31.1 % using HFNC due to ventilatory dysfunction, 2.4 % after extubation, and 66.5 % after NIV weaning. HFNC success rate was observed in 90.9 % of the NBs, with no difference between equipment types (Vapotherm ™, Optiflow ™, and adapted VM). Conclusion: Different types of HFNC equipment are equally effective when used in neonatology for respiratory dysfunction, as a method of weaning from NIV and post-extubation. Adapted obsolete MV can be an alternative for HFCN therapy in resource-constrained settings.

Cánula Nasal de Alto Flujo Asimétrica: una Revisión Narrativa / Asymmetrical High Flow Nasal Cannula: a Narrative Review

Los sistemas de Cánula nasal de alto flujo (CNAF) han sido ampliamente utilizados en el campo clínico como soporte no invasivo en el manejo de la falla respiratoria aguda (sobre todo hipoxémica) y cuidados post extubación. Clínica y fisiológicamente, las cánulas nasales de alto flujo son capaces de entregar un flujo de oxigeno alto que, debido a que ese gas se encuentra optimamente humidificado y calefaccionado, permite una mejor tolerancia por parte del paciente al ser comparada con las cánulas de oxigeno tradicionales. Por otra parte, este alto. Flujo es capaz de generar una presión positiva al final de la espiración (CPAP) en la vía área y favorecer tanto en barrido de dióxido de carbono (CO2) desde la vía aérea superior, lo que disminuye el trabajo respiratorio del paciente y mejora su confort.. Sin embargo; aún existe un alto porcentaje de pacientes que fracasan la terapia con CNAF y requiere soportes mas complejos como la ventilación mecánica, ya sea imvasiva o no. Estos resultados con la terapia CNAF pueden ser influidos por aspectos técnicos como, por ejemplo, la turbulencia que pueden generar estos sistemas a nivel de la región nasal. Por esta razón se han desarrollado nuevas tecnologías en el diseño y uso de interfaces para suministrar este alto flujo. Una de estas innovaciones es el uso de cánulas asimétricas, las que potencian los beneficios fisiológicos que entrega una cánula de alto flujo convencional. La presente revisión pretende exponer las principales diferencias que presenta el sistema de alto flujo convencional versus la nueva interface asimétrica.

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) systems have been widely used in the clinical field as non-invasive support in the management of acute respiratory failure (especially hypoxemic) and post-extubation care. Clinically and physiologically, high flow nasal cannulas are capable of delivering a high flow of oxygen which, because this gas is optimally humidified and heated, allows better tolerance by the patient when compared to traditional oxygen cannulas. . On the other hand, this high. Flow is capable of generating positive pressure at the end of expiration (CPAP) in the airway and favoring the sweep of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the upper airway, which reduces the patient's respiratory work and improves their comfort. .. However; There is still a high percentage of patients who fail therapy with HFNC and require more complex supports such as mechanical ventilation, whether invasive or not. These results with HFNC therapy can be influenced by technical aspects such as, for example, the turbulence that these systems can generate in the nasal region. For this reason, new technologies have been developed in the design and use of interfaces to provide this high flow. One of these innovations is the use of asymmetric cannulas, which enhance the physiological benefits provided by a conventional high-flow cannula. The present review aims to expose the main differences that the conventional high flow system presents versus the new asymmetric interface.

High-flow Nasal Cannula Oxygen Therapy in a Palliative Care Unit: Three Cases of Cancer Patients Suffering from Severe Dyspnea with Respiratory Failure

High-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNC) in palliative care is mentioned in several guidelines, however, the indication for this procedure has not been established yet. At our department, HFNC has increasingly been adopted for end-stage cancer patients when their dyspnea needs to be alleviated. This is a case report on three patients treated with this procedure at our department. Although they had severe dyspnea with respiratory failure, their daily activities, such as enjoying meals and conversation with their families, were improved with HFNC. It can be a treatment of choice to maintain and improve patients’ quality of life (QOL) in palliative setting, where benefits and risks should be considered for each patient.

Application of high flow nasal canula in patients with pulmonary edema caused by seawater drowning / 中华危重病急救医学

Objective:To investigate the therapeutic effect of high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNC) and non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) on patients with pulmonary edema caused by seawater drowning.Methods:A retrospective analysis method was used. Based on the Utstein database of emergency drowning in the First Hospital of Qinhuangdao, the clinical data of patients with seawater drowning pulmonary edema admitted to the emergency medicine department of the First Hospital of Qinhuangdao from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2022 were collected. The patients were divided into NPPV group and HFNC group according to different ventilation methods. The general data, endotracheal intubation rate in 7 days, arterial blood gas analysis indexes [arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO 2), arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO 2), arterial oxygen saturation (SaO 2)] and hemodynamic indexes (systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, blood lactic acid) before and after treatment, length of stay in intensive care unit (ICU), oxygen therapy comfort of the two groups were compared. Results:A total of 54 patients were enrolled, including 21 patients in the NPPV group and 33 patients in the HFNC group. There were no significant differences in gender, age, state of consciousness and other general information between the two groups. Compared with NPPV group, the rate of endotracheal intubation in HFNC group within 7 days was significantly lower [24.2% (8/33) vs. 33.3% (7/21), P < 0.05]. Before treatment, there were no significant differences in arterial blood gas analysis and hemodynamics between the two groups. After treatment, the above indexes in both groups were significantly improved compared with those before treatment, and PaO 2, SaO 2, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure in HFNC group were significantly higher than those in NPPV group [PaO 2 (mmHg, 1 mmHg≈0.133kPa): 93.56±6.37 vs. 82.14±6.25, SaO 2: 1.02±0.09 vs. 0.95±0.11, systolic blood pressure (mmHg): 117.37±8.43 vs. 110.42±8.38, diastolic blood pressure (mmHg): 79.43±7.61 vs. 72.21±4.32, mean arterial pressure (mmHg): 92.34±6.32 vs. 85.12±5.38], PaCO 2, heart rate and blood lactic acid were significantly lower than those in NPPV group [PaCO 2 (mmHg) : 34.26±5.63 vs. 37.24±6.22, heart rate (times/min): 73.38±7.56 vs. 86.25±5.41, blood lactic acid (mmol/L): 1.38±0.36 vs. 2.25±1.14], and the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). In addition, the length of ICU stay in HFNC group was significantly shorter than that in NPPV group (days: 13.30±2.38 vs. 16.27±4.26), and the comfort rate of oxygen therapy was significantly higher than that in NPPV group [66.7% (22/33) vs. 42.8% (9/21)], with statistical significance (all P < 0.05). Conclusion:HFNC can improve the oxygenation of patients with pulmonary edema caused by seawater drowning, improve hemodynamics, reduce the rate of tracheal intubation, shorten the length of ICU stay, and improve the comfort of oxygen therapy, which has certain clinical application value.

High-flow nasal cannula and non-invasive mechanical ventilation in pediatric asthma exacerbation: two-year prospective observational study in intensive care / Cánula nasal de alto flujo y ventilación no invasiva en asma pediátrico grave: estudio observacional prospectivo de dos años de duración en cuidados intensivos

Abstract Background: Asthma is a common cause of admission to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). We described and analyzed the therapies applied to children admitted to a tertiary PICU because of asthma. Later, we evaluated high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) use in these patients and compared their evolution and complications with those who received non-invasive ventilation. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study (October 2017-October 2019). Collected data: epidemiological, clinical, respiratory support therapy needed, complementary tests, and PICU and hospital stay. Patients were divided into three groups: (1) only HFNC; (2) HFNC and non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV); and (3) only NIMV. Results: Seventy-six patients were included (39 female). The median age was 2 years and 1 month. The median pulmonary score was 5. The median PICU stay was 3 days, and the hospital stay was 6 days. Children with HNFC only (56/76) had fewer PICU days (p = 0.025) and did not require NIMV (6/76). Children with HFNC had a higher oxygen saturation/fraction of inspired oxygen ratio ratio (p = 0.025) and lower PCO2 (p = 0.032). In the group receiving both therapies (14/76), NIMV was used first in all cases. No epidemiologic or clinical differences were found among groups. Conclusion: HFNC was a safe approach that did not increase the number of PICU or hospital days. On admission, normal initial blood gases and the absence of high oxygen requirements were useful in selecting responders to HFNC. Further randomized and multicenter clinical trials are needed to verify these data.

Resumen Introducción: El asma es una causa frecuente de ingreso en la unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos (UCIP). En este, cuadro el uso de cánula nasal de alto flujo (CNAF) se ha visto extendido. En este trabajo se describe el tratamiento global en la UCIP ante el ingreso por asma en un hospital monográfico pediátrico y se evalúa la respuesta al uso de la CNAF, comparando la evolución de los pacientes con aquellos que recibieron ventilación no invasiva (VNI). Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio observacional prospectivo (de octubre del 2017 a octubre del 2019). Se describieron epidemiología, clínica, tratamiento y soporte respiratorio. Para la comparación se crearon tres grupos de pacientes: 1) solo CNAF; 2) CNAF y VNI; y 3) solo VNI. Resultados: Se incluyeron 76 pacientes. La mediana de edad fue de dos años y un mes; la mediana de índice pulmonar fue 5. La mediana de ingreso en UCIP fue de tres días y de ingreso hospitalario, seis días. Los niños con solo CNAF (56/76) mostraron menos días de UCIP (p = 0.025) y no requirieron VNI (6/76). También mostraron mayor SatO2/FiO2 (saturación de oxígeno/fracción de oxígeno inspirado) (p = 0.025) y menor nivel de PCO2 (presión parcial de CO2) (p = 0.032). La VNI se utilizó primero siempre en el grupo que recibió ambas modalidades (14/76). No se encontraron diferencias epidemiológicas o clínicas entre grupos. Conclusiones: En nuestra serie, el uso de CNAF no aumentó los días de ingreso en la UCIP ni de hospital. Tampoco requirió cambio a VNI. Al ingreso, una gasometría normal y bajo requerimiento de oxígeno permitieron seleccionar a los pacientes respondedores. Se necesitan más ensayos multicéntricos clínicos aleatorizados para verificar estos datos.

Uso de cánula nasal de alto flujo artesanal como oxigenoterapia en insuficiencia respiratoria por COVID-19 / Use of artisanal high flow nasal cannula as oxygen therapy in respiratory failure due to COVID-19

Los riesgos asociados a la neumonía por (SARS-CoV-2) es la generación de insuficiencia respiratoria secundaria que en algunos casos desencadenara al tan temido síndrome de distres respiratorio (SDRA); Informes sobre atención clínica, indican que tiene una incidencia (SDRA) de 3-10 % con necesidad de Asistencia Respiratoria Mecánica (ARM) en pacientes hospitalizados; por lo que dispositivos de oxigenación no invasivos siguen siendo una opción atractiva, de forma inicial. Caso clínico: mujer de 47 años con insuficiencia respiratoria secundario a neumonía por COVID-19, por la gravedad se indica su ingreso a terapia intensiva, pero por razones de falta de unidad es manejada en unidad respiratoria, con el uso de dispositivos de oxigenación de armado ARTESAL, de manera exitosa, con la utilización de CNAF-artesanal, se pretende mejorar el trabajo respiratorio, índices de oxigenación, mientras se da tratamiento a la infección por el COVID-19; el objetivo del presente caso es reportar el presente caso con evolución favorable a la literatura disponible. Discusión: El uso de terapia de oxigenación con dispositivo de Cánula Nasal de Alto Flujo, aún no ha sido normatizado en pacientes con COVID-19, pero existe evidencia clínica sobre los efectos beneficiosos en la insuficiencia respiratoria en neonatos mas no en adultos. Conclusión: El uso temprano de la CNAF-artesanal en la insuficiencia respiratoria resulta muy atractivo, más aún con dispositivo de confección artesanal, da una opción más al paciente fuera de UTI, pudiendo apoyar en evitar la intubación y su ingreso a ventilación mecánica.

The risks associated with pneumonia (SARS-CoV-2) is the generation of secondary respiratory failure that in some cases will trigger the much feared respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); Reports on clinical care indicate that it has an incidence (ARDS) of 3-10% with the need for Mechanical Respiratory Assistance (ARM) in hospitalized patients; so non-invasive oxygenation devices remain an attractive option, initially. Clinical case: a 47-year-old woman with respiratory failure secondary to covid-19 pneumonia. Due to the severity, her admission to intensive care is indicated, but for reasons of lack of unity, she is managed in a common room, with the use of high-pressure oxygenation devices. ARTISAL assembly, successfully, with the use of CNAF-artisanal, is intended to improve the work of breathing, and oxygenation indices, while treating the infection by COVID-19; The objective of this case is to report the present case with a favorable evolution based on the available literature. Discussion: The use of oxygenation therapy with a High Flow Nasal Cannula device has not yet been standardized in patients with COVID-19, but there is clinical evidence on the beneficial effects in respiratory failure in neonates but not in adults. Conclusion: The early use of the artisan HFNC in respiratory failure is very attractive, even more so with an artisanal device, it gives the patient another option outside the ICU, being able to help avoid intubation and admission to mechanical ventilation.

A randomized controlled trial to compare the success rates and efficacy of high flow nasal cannulae versus nasal continuous positive airway pressure in post extubation period in neonates

Background: Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) is the mainstay for non-invasive respiratory support for all respiratory distress neonates. Recent advances in Heated humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC) usage with enhanced humidity, and improved comfort factors have led to its widespread use, at times replacing nCPAP in many neonatal settings. The present study was to assess the efficacy and safety of HHHFNC compared with nCPAP for non-invasive respiratory support in post-extubation period.Methods: A hospital based randomized controlled trial was conducted in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of S. Nijalingappa Medical College and HSK Hospital, Bagalkot from January 2019 to June 2020. 140 post-extubated neonates were enrolled for the study after obtaining informed consent from parents, and those who were directly extubated to no support and with major congenital anomalies were excluded from the study. Randomization was done by computer generated random number allocation method.Results: Of the140 babies, 60% were males and 40% were females. Out of 84 male neonates, 47 (67.1%) were on nCPAP and 37 (32.9%) on HHHFNC and out of 56 female neonates 23 (32.9%) were on nCPAP and 33 (47.1%) on HFNC. In this study, 4 babies on nCPAP required re-intubation within 72 hours. 5 babies on HHHFNC, 3 babies required re-intubation within 72 hours and 2 babies within 5 days. The incidence of nasal trauma, hospital stay and duration of NIV support were less in HHHFNC group as compared to nCPAP group.Conclusions: HHHFNC therapy is as effective as nCPAP therapy for the facilitation of extubation in neonates.

Construction of a prediction model for non-invasive respiratory strategies failure of patients with moderate acute hypoxemic respiratory failure based on ultrasonic parameters / 中华急诊医学杂志

Objective:To construct a predict model based on ultrasomics parameters that can identify moderate acute hypoxemic respiratory failure patients at risk of non-invasive respiratory strategies(NIRS) failure and evaluate its value.Methods:This is a prospective observational trial.The patients with moderate acute respiratory failure (100 mmHg≤PaO 2/FiO 2≤200 mmHg) in intensive care unit(ICU) ,emergency and respiratory ward of Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University from Oct 2020 to Jan 2023 were included, NIRS failure is defined as death or intubation while on therapy.At admission time and 24 h after treatment vital signs,biological and ultrasound parameters were determined.The study subjects were randomly ( random number) divided into a development group (70%) and a validation group (30%).Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was performed.The treatment failure prediction models were constructed according to ultrasonic parameters combined with clinical parameters.The models were also validated by ROC curves, calibration curves, NRI index and decision curve analysis (DCA).The nomograms were drawn. Results:A total of 193 patients were included in the study, 137 were allocated to the development group, and 56 to the validation group, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. NIRS failed in 112 (58%) of 193 patients..Univariate analysis revealed that PaO 2/FiO 2, DE at the time of admission and 24 h in the failure group were found to be statistically lower than the success group, RV/LV was higher (all P<0.05). RR, LUS at 24 h in the failure group were higher and ROX index was lower (all P<0.01). In addition, more patients in the failure group received vasopressors ( P= 0.001). Use of vasopressors( OR=4.709, P=0.012), RR( OR=1.254, P=0.035), LUS( OR=1.250, P=0.037), RV/LV( OR=1.057, P=0.008), PaO 2/FiO 2 ( OR=0.950, P=0.001), DE ( OR=0.107, P=0.001) in the development group were independent risk factors for NIRS failure.ROC analysis revealed that model B achieved a larger area under curve (AUC) than model A in the development group, with their AUC values of 0.928 and 0.872 ( P=0.009), AUC of model A and model B in the validation group were 0.867 and 0.932 respectively ( P=0.07).Two prediction models showed a good degree of calibration (all P>0.05). NRI analysis showed significant improvement in the predictive power of model B ( P<0.01). DCA showed that the model B had a good net benefit between the threshold probabilities of 0-80%. Conclusions:Ultrasomics parameters combined with Clinical parameters can effectively predict NIRS failure in moderate acute hypoxemic respiratory failure patients.

Clinical efficacy of humidified high flow versus conventional nasal cannula oxygen inhalation on hypoxemia after complex ventral hernia surgery in elderly patients / 中华消化外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical efficacy of humidified high flow nasal cannula oxygen inhalation (HFNC) versus conventional nasal cannula oxygen inhalation on hypoxemia after complex ventral hernia surgery in elderly patients.Methods:The retrospective cohort study was conducted. The clinical data of 80 elderly patients with hypoxemia after complex ventral hernia surgery who were admitted to Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University from January 2021 to June 2022 were collected. There were 44 males and 36 females, aged (74±7)years. Of the 80 patients, 40 cases undergoing HFNC were allocated into HFNC group, and 40 cases undergoing conventional nasal cannula oxygen inhalation were allocated into conventional group, respectively. Observation indicators: (1) postoperative blood gas analysis; (2) postoperative complications. Measurement data with normal distribution were represented as Mean± SD, and comparison between groups was conducted using the independent sample t test. Measurement data with skewed distribution were represented as M( Q1, Q3), and comparison between groups was conducted using the rank sum test. Count data were represented as absolute numbers or percentages, and comparison between groups was conducted using the chi-square test or Fisher exact probability. Repeated measurement data were analyzed using the repeated ANOVA. Results:(1) Postoperative blood gas analysis. Before surgery and at 12 hours, 24 hours, 3 days after surgery, the partial pressure of blood oxygen was (13.5±2.3)kPa, (13.4±3.2)kPa, (13.8±2.3)kPa, (13.7±2.0)kPa for the HFNC group, and (12.7±2.1)kPa, (12.9±2.4)kPa, (12.3±2.5)kPa, (13.9±2.1) kPa for the conventional group. The partial pressure of carbon dioxide was (5.6±0.7)kPa, (5.0±0.6)kPa, (4.7±0.6)kPa, (4.9±0.6)kPa for the HFNC group, and (5.6±0.6)kPa, (4.4±0.8)kPa, (5.0±4.8)kPa, (5.1±1.1)kPa for the conventional group. The saturation of blood oxygen was 97.8%±2.2%, 98.1%±2.1%, 98.9%±1.8%, 99.2%±2.0% for the HFNC group, and 97.8%±3.1%, 97.8%±2.1%, 99.0%±1.5%, 98.8%±2.0% for the conventional group. The oxygenation index was 259±28, 300±45, 352±46, 353±57 for the HFNC group, and 262±29, 297±54, 304±63, 345±53 for the conventional group, respectively. There was a significant difference in the interven-tion effect of partial pressure of blood oxygen between the two groups ( Fgroup=4.09, P<0.05) and no significant difference in the time effect or interaction effect ( Ftime=2.37, Finteraction=1.71, P>0.05). There were significant differences in the time effect and interaction effect of partial pressure of carbon dioxide between the two groups ( Ftime=7.23, Finteraction=13.21, P<0.05) and no significant difference in the intervention effect ( Fgroup=1.02, P>0.05). There was a significant difference in the time effect of saturation of blood oxygen between the two groups ( Ftime=5.54, P<0.05) and no significant difference in the intervention effect or interaction effect ( Fgroup=1.78, Finteraction=0.46, P>0.05). There were signifi-cant differences in the intervention effect, time effect, interaction effect of oxygenation index between the two groups ( Fgroup=8.21, Ftime=42.07, Finteraction=3.49, P<0.05). (2) Postoperative complications. The time in intensive care unit and cases with pulmonary infection were 3(3,3)days and 3 for the HFNC group, versus 6(5,7)days and 10 for the conventional group, showing significant differences between the two groups ( Z=27.50, χ2=4.50, P<0.05). Cases with atelectasis and endotrachead intubation were 0 and 1 for the HFNC group, versus 4 and 7 for the conventional group, showing no significant difference between the two groups ( P>0.05). There was no death in either group. Conclusion:Humidified high flow oxygen inhalation has certain advantages over conventional nasal cannula oxygen inhalation in improving partial pressure of blood oxygen and oxygenation index after complex ventral hernia surgery in elderly patients.

Evaluation of the efficacy of high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease complicated with type Ⅱ respiratory failure / 中国中西医结合急救杂志

Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy(HFNC)and non-invasive mechanical ventilation in patients with typeⅡrespiratory failure during acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(AECOPD).Methods A total of 84 patients with AECOPD combined with typeⅡrespiratory failure admitted to the department of internal medicine of Beijing Sijiqing Hospital from September 2019 to December 2021 were selected as the study objects.The patients were randomly divided into observation group and control group,with 42 cases in each group.Both groups were given conventional treatment,the observation group was given HFNC,and the control group was given non-invasive mechanical ventilation.The difference of clinical efficacy between the two groups was compared,and the changes of heart rate(HR),respiratory rate(RR),arterial blood gas analysis index,lung function before and 7 days after treatment,complications and tracheal intubation rate,mortality were observed in the two groups.Results The total effective rate of the observation group was higher than that of the control group[88.10%(37/42)vs.69.05%(29/42),P＜0.05].Before treatment,HR,RR,arterial blood gas analysis indexes[arterial partial pressure of oxygen(PaO2),arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide(PaCO2),arterial oxygen saturation(SaO2),pH value],pulmonary function indexes[forced expiratory volume in one second(FEV1),forced vital capacity(FVC),FEV1/FVC]of the two groups were no statistically significant.After treatment,HR,RR and PaCO2 were significantly lower than before treatment,while PaO2,SaO2,pH,FEV1,FVC and FEV1/FVC were significantly higher than before treatment.After treatment,HR,RR and PaCO2 in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group[HR(bpm):90.14±5.66 vs.93.57±4.77,RR(times/min):21.90±4.88 vs.22.45±4.31,PaCO2(mmHg,1 mmHg≈0.133 kPa):60.02±5.93 vs.62.83±6.29],PaO2,SaO2,pH,FEV1,FVC,FEV1/FVC were significantly higher than the control group[PaO2(mmHg):80.70±7.81 vs.76.21±8.23,SaO2:0.94±0.04 vs.0.92±0.04,pH value:7.36±0.05 vs.7.32±0.06,FEV1(L):1.73±0.41 vs.1.53±0.35,FVC(L):2.80±0.48 vs.2.57±0.43,FEV1/FVC:(61.98±5.67)%vs.(59.14±5.34)%,all P＜0.05].The incidence of complications such as of dry throat[4.8%(2/42)vs.19.0%(8/42)],facial compression injury[0%(0/42)vs.14.3%(6/42)],abdominal distension[9.5%(4/42)vs.26.2%(11/42)]in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group(all P＜0.05).There was no significant difference in the rate of tracheal intubation and mortality between the observation group and the control group[11.90%(5/42)vs.26.19%(11/42)and 4.76%(2/42)vs.7.14%(3/42),both P＞0.05].Conclusion HFNC is effective in treating AECOPD patients with typeⅡrespiratory failure,with fewer complications and high safety.

A simple nomogram for predicting failure of high-flow nasal cannula in patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure / 中华内科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the predictive efficacy of a nomogram in patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) undergoing treatment with a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC).Methods:We conducted a retrospective observational study of patients with AHRF who received HFNC treatment. Data on complications, vital signs on the first day after enrollment, use of vasoactive drugs, Glasgow Coma Scale scores, and clinical respiratory parameters (respiratory rate, pulse oximetry oxygen saturation, and fraction of inspired oxygen) were meticulously recorded. The risk ratio for HFNC failure was computed using an online calculator.Results:Overall, 62 patients were included, of which 29 (46.77%) experienced HFNC failure. No significant differences were observed in age, sex, body mass index, complications, or sequential organ failure assessment scores between the two groups. However, compared with those who responded positively to HFNC treatment, individuals experiencing HFNC failure demonstrated a significant increase in acute physiology and chronic health evaluation Ⅱ scores [ (15.15±5.01)score vs. (21.00±5.76)score; P<0.001 ]. Furthermore, HFNC treatment failure was associated with significantly higher ICU mortality rates [0 vs. 34.48%(10/29), P<0.01] and in-hospital mortality rates [3.03%(1/33) vs. 37.93%(11/29), P<0.01], as well as a marked prolongation of ICU stay [6(4,10)d vs. 11(6,17)d, P=0.012]. In the failure group, the nomogram-derived risk ratio was 0.80±0.18, which was significantly higher than that in the success group (0.65±0.18; P=0.009). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the nomogram for predicting HFNC failure was 0.76, with a sensitivity of 54.8% and a specificity of 93.6%. Conclusion:The nomogram, along with the online calculator, offers a straightforward and effective means for assessing the risk of treatment failure in patients with AHRF undergoing HFNC therapy.

Early clinical application and prediction of ROX index in patients with high-flow nasal canula oxygen therapy / 中华危重病急救医学

Objective:To investigate the application value of ROX index in evaluating the effect of high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNC) on patients diagnosed with respiratory failure, and to find a simpler and more effective method to observe the efficacy of HFNC.Methods:A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Patients who were admitted to department of critical care medicine of the Tianjin Third Central Hospital from April 2020 to August 2022, diagnosed with type Ⅰ respiratory failure, and treated with HFNC after failure of conventional oxygen therapy were enrolled. Oxygenation index (PaO 2/FiO 2), fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO 2), gas flow rate at the initial time of admission, and pulse oxygen saturation (SpO 2), FiO 2 and respiratory rate (RR) at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 hours of HFNC were collected, and ROX index was calculated. The patients with symptoms and PaO 2/FiO 2 improved after HFNC treatment and without higher respiratory support lately were defined as HFNC success, while other patients with symptoms worsening and needing follow-up non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) or invasive positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) were defined as HFNC failure. The tendency of changes in the ROX index at each time point was observed. Receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC curve) was plotted to obtain the optimum cut-off value of ROX index for predicting HFNC outcome and the optimal monitoring time point for HFNC. Results:A total of 142 patients were eventually enrolled, among whom 96 patients (67.61%) were in treated with HFNC successfully, while 46 patients (32.39%) were recorded as HFNC failure (39 patients and 7 patients received NIPPV or IPPV, respectively), with an overall intubation rate of 4.93% (7/142). Compared with the HFNC success group, the HFNC failure group had lower PaO 2/FiO 2 [mmHg (1 mmHg ≈ 0.133 kPa): 208.8±37.3 vs. 235.7±48.3, P < 0.01] and higher initial gas flow rate (L/min: 46.4±3.9 vs. 42.3±4.9, P < 0.01). However, there was no significant difference in gender, age, primary diagnosis, severity of disease, hemoglobin (Hb), C-reactive protein (CRP), and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) between the two groups. In the HFNC failure group, there were 12 patients (26.09%) received progressive oxygen therapy within 12 hours of HFNC, of which 3 patients (6.52%) occurred within 6 hours, while the other 9 patients (19.57%) occurred after 6 hours. The initial ROX index was not statistically significant between the two groups. Both groups showed a continuous increasing ROX index with longer treatment duration of HFNC, and the ROX index at all of the time points of the HFNC failure group was significantly lower than that of the HFNC success group with statistically significant difference (2 hours: 9.39±2.85 vs. 10.91±3.51, 4 hours: 8.62±2.29 vs. 11.40±3.18, 6 hours: 7.62±1.65 vs. 11.85±3.45, 8 hours: 7.79±1.59 vs. 11.62±3.10, 10 hours: 7.97±1.62 vs. 12.44±2.75, 12 hours: 8.84±2.51 vs. 12.45±3.03, all P < 0.05). The ROC curve analysis showed that the areas under the ROC curve (AUC) of ROX index assessing the effect of HFNC at the time of treating 6, 8 and 10 hours were better than 2, 4 and 12 hours (0.890, 0.903, 0.930 vs. 0.585, 0.738 and 0.829), indicating that the ROX index could determine the efficacy at the early stage of HFNC (within 6 hours). When the optimum cut-off value of ROX index was 8.78, the sensitivity was 90.6%, and the specificity was 76.5%. Conclusion:The ROX index at 6 hours of HFNC has a certain predictive value for the efficacy of HFNC with an optimum cut-off value of 8.78, which can provide clinical health care personnel a method for observing the efficacy of HFNC, and guide the correct selection of oxygen therapy modality at an early stage and timely adjustment of oxygen therapy strategy.

High-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy versus non-invasive ventilation for chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases with acute-moderate hypercapnic respiratory failure: a randomized controlled trial of non-inferiority / 中华急诊医学杂志

Objective:To compare the efficacy of high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNC) and non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in the treatment of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) with moderate typeⅡ respiratory failure, to clarify the feasibility of HFNC in the treatment of AECOPD, and to explore the influencing factors of HFNC failure.Methods:This study was a randomized controlled trial of non-inferiority. Patients with AECOPD with moderate type Ⅱ respiratory failure [arterial blood gas pH 7.25-7.35, partial pressure of arterial blood carbon dioxide (PaCO 2)> 50 mmHg] admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) from January 2018 to December 2021 were randomly assigned to the HFNC group and NIV group to receive respiratory support. The primary endpoint was the treatment failure rate. The secondary endpoints were blood gas analysis and vital signs at 1 h, 12 h, and 48 h, total duration of respiratory support, 28-day mortality, comfort score, ICU length of stay, and total length of stay. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the failure factors of HFNC treatment. Results:Totally 228 patients were randomly divided into two groups, 108 patients in the HFNC group and 110 patients in the NIV group. The treatment failure rate was 29.6% in the HFNC group and 25.5% in the NIV group. The risk difference of failure rate between the two groups was 4.18% (95% CI: -8.27%~16.48%, P=0.490), which was lower than the non-inferiority value of 9%. The most common causes of failure in the HFNC group were carbon dioxide retention and aggravation of respiratory distress, and the most common causes of failure in the NIV group were treatment intolerance and aggravation of respiratory distress. Treatment intolerance in the HFNC group was significantly lower than that in the NIV group (-29.02%, 95% CI -49.52%~-7.49%; P=0.004). After 1 h of treatment, the pH in both groups increased significantly, PaCO 2 decreased significantly and the oxygenation index increased significantly compared with baseline (all P < 0.05). PaCO 2 in both groups decreased gradually at 1 h, 12 h and 48 h after treatment, and the pH gradually increased. The average number of daily airway care interventions and the incidence of nasal and facial lesions in the HFNC group were significantly lower than those in the NIV group ( P < 0.05), while the comfort score in the HFNC group was significantly higher than that in the NIV group ( P=0.021). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the total duration of respiratory support, dyspnea score, ICU length of stay, total length of stay and 28-day mortality (all P > 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that acute physiology and chronic health evaluation Ⅱ score (≥15), family NIV, history of cerebrovascular accident, PaCO 2 (≥60 mmHg) and respiratory rate (≥32 times/min) at 1 h were independent predictors of HFNC failure. Conclusions:HFNC is not inferior to NIV in the treatment of AECOPD complicated with moderate type Ⅱ respiratory failure. HFNC is an ideal choice of respiratory support for patients with NIV intolerance, but clinical application should pay attention to the influencing factors of its treatment failure.

Applications of different flow rates of humidified high flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy on ICU patients with difficult weaning / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective:To explore the effects of different initial flow rates of humidified high flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy on weaning outcomes and comfort level among ICU patients with difficult weaning.Methods:A total of 99 ICU patients with difficult weaning received at Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital ICU from June 2019 to June 2021 were enrolled in the present study, they were assigned to 40 L/min group, 50 L/min group and 60 L/min group according to the random number table method, with 33 cases in each group. The weaning outcomes among three groups were compared, the degree of dryness of oral/nasal cavity, throat pain as well as vital signs and blood gas indexes were also compared before extubation and 30 min after the first humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHFNC) oxygen therapy.Results:There was no significant difference in length of stay in ICU and hospital, re-intubation within 7 days, the mortality within 28 days in ICU and the hospital among three groups ( P>0.05). The weaning success rate were 78.8% (24/33) and 77.4% (23/31) in 50 L/min group and 60 L/min, higher than in the 40 L/min group 53.1% (17/32), the difference was statistically significant ( χ2=4.78, 4.09, both P<0.05). After oxygen therapy, the scores of dryness of oral/nasal cavity and throat pain in the 40 L/min group, 50 L/min group and 60 L/min group were (3.16 ± 0.77), (2.94 ± 0.80) and (3.27 ± 0.92), (3.09 ± 0.77), and (4.10 ± 1.01), (3.97 ± 1.40), the differences were statistically significant ( F=5.21, 9.26, both P<0.05), and the differences between 50 L/min group and 40 L/min group and 60 L/min group were statistically significant ( t values were 2.62-3.99, all P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in vital signs and blood gas indexes among the three groups before extubation and after oxygen therapy ( P>0.05). Conclusions:Humidified high flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy for the ICU patients with difficult weaning, oxygen flow with 50L/min can not only effectively promote weaning success rate but also improve patients′ respiratory comfort level.

Análisis de la experiencia del uso de cánula nasal de alto flujo como terapéutica en neumonía por SARS-CoV-2 / Analysis of the experience of the use of high-flow nasal cannula as therapeutics in SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia

Introducción: Durante la pandemia por SARS-CoV-2, la cánula nasal de alto flujo (CNAF) se usó como soporte en espera de Unidad de terapia intensiva (UTI) o como alternativa a la ventilación invasiva. Objetivos: Primario: Determinar si la cánula nasal de alto flujo evita la intubación oro traqueal. Secundarios: Analizar predictores de éxito al inicio de la cánula nasal de alto flujo y análisis descriptivo de la muestra. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo retrospectivo. Se incluyeron pacientes mayores de 16 años positivos para SARS-CoV-2, atendidos en guardia y unidad de terapia intensiva, que utilizaron cánula nasal de alto flujo entre octubre de 2020 y marzo 2021. Se recolectaron datos en planillas individuales, analizadas por un profesional externo. Resultados: Se incluyeron en el trabajo 72 pacientes (de 16 a 88 años), 20 mujeres y 52 hombres. El 50 % de la muestra evitó la intubación orotraqueal. El IROX inicio grupo "éxito" vs. grupo "fracaso", p = 0,006. Comparación Irox 12 h grupo "éxito" vs. grupo "fracaso" p < 0,001. Comparación "tiempo desde ingreso a inicio de cánula nasal de alto flujo" grupo "éxito" vs. grupo "fracaso", p = 0,133. Comparación "Delta IROX" grupo "éxito" vs grupo "fracaso" p = 0,092. Conclusión: Se evitó la intubación orotraqueal en el 50 % de los casos. El IROX de inicio y el IROX a las 12 h del uso de cánula nasal de alto flujo fue estadísticamente significativo, lo que es un buen predictor del éxito en esta población. La fecha de inicio de síntomas y el uso de cánula nasal de alto flujo y el delta del IROX durante las pri meras 12 h no fue estadísticamente significativo para el éxito de la terapia. Estos datos son una herramienta útil con el objeto de generar protocolos de selección de pacientes para esta patología.

Introduction: During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) was used as support while waiting for the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or as an alternative to invasive ventilation. The objective of this work is the description and analysis of the use of CNAF in our population. Objectives: Primary: Determine if HFNC prevents orotracheal intubation. Secondary: Analyze predictors of success at the start of CNAF and a descriptive analysis of the sample Materials and method: Retrospective descriptive observational study. Patients over 16 years of age positive for SARS-CoV-2, treated in Guard and ICU were included. who used CNAF between October 2020 and March 2021 Data was collected in individual forms, analyzed by an external professional. Results: The study included 72 patients (16 to 88 years old), 20 women and 52 men; 50 % of the sample avoided orotracheal intubation. Start IROX, group "success" vs. group "failure" p = 0.006. Comparison Irox.12 h group "success" vs. group "failure" p < 0.001. Comparison "Time from admission to start of CNAF" group "success" vs. group "failure" p = 0.133. Comparison "Delta IROX" group "success" vs. group "failure" p = 0.092. Conclusion: HFNC avoided orotracheal intubation in the 50 % of the cases. The initial IROX and the IROX 12 hours after the use of HFNC were statistically significant, which is a good predictor of success in this population. The date of onset of symptoms and the use of FNAF and IROX delta during the first 12 hours were not statistically significant for the success of the therapy. These data are a useful tool for generating patient selection protocols for this pathology.

Uso prolongado de cánula nasal de alto flujo en niños con problemas respiratorios / Prolonged use of high flow nasal cannula in children with respiratory problems

La cánula nasal de alto flujo (CNAF) es una modalidad ventilatoria no invasiva segura y efectiva, usada ampliamente en patología respiratoria aguda en adultos y niños. Objetivo: presentar casos clínicos pediátricos que utilizaron CNAF por tiempo prolongado por problemas respiratorios crónicos. Descripción de casos clínicos, revisión de fichas clínicas de 5 pacientes que utilizaron CNAF por más de 1 mes, entre los años 2017-2020 en el Complejo Asistencial Dr. Sótero del Río. Aprobado por Comité de Ética. Resultados: 5 pacientes varones de mediana 61 (44 a 212) días de edad al inicio del uso de CNAF. Diagnóstico de base: displasia broncopulmonar (2/5), síndrome de Treacher Collins (1/5), síndrome de cimitarra con hipoplasia pulmonar derecha (1/5) y traqueobroncomalacia severa (1/5). Todos requirieron previamente uso de ventilación invasiva o no invasiva con mediana de 59 (4 a 78) días. A todos se les realizó broncoscopia, saturometría contínua o poligrafía para diagnóstico y titulación de CNAF y oxígeno. Todos mejoraron clínicamente, la SpO2 y el número de apneas. Dos pacientes se enviaron a domicilio con uso de Airvo2 nocturno. La mediana de uso de CNAF fue 165 (34 a 445) días. Conclusiones: el uso prolongado de CNAF es útil en pacientes pediátricos seleccionados, bien tolerado y factible de utilizar en domicilio.

The high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is a safe and effective non-invasive ventilation support widely used in acute respiratory pathology in adults and children. Objective: To present pediatric clinical cases that used HFNC for an extended period due to chronic respiratory disease. Description of clinical cases, review of medical records of 5 patients who used HFNC for more than 1 month, between the years 2017-2020 at Complejo Asistencial Dr. Sótero del Río. Approved by the Ethics Committee. Results: 5 male patients with a median age of 61 (44 to 212) days at the start of HFNC use. Underlying diagnoses: bronchopulmonary dysplasia (2/5), Treacher Collins syndrome (1/5), Scimitar syndrome with right pulmonary hypoplasia (1/5), and severe tracheobronchomalacia (1/5). All of them previously required invasive or non-invasive ventilation for a median of 59 (4 to 78) days. All patients underwent bronchoscopy, continuous pulse oximetry or polygraphy for diagnosis and titration of HFNC and oxygen. All showed clinical improvement, including SpO2 levels and the number of apneas. Two patients were discharged with nocturnal use of Airvo 2 at home. The median duration of HFNC use was 165 (34 to 445) days. Conclusions: Prolonged use of HFNC is useful in selected pediatric patients, well tolerated, and feasible for home use.

Terapia con cánula nasal de alto flujo en pacientes pediátricos en domicilio / High flow nasal cannula therapy in pediatric patients at home

Se realiza comentario de estudio de Israel en el cual analizan 75 pacientes pediátricos que utilizaron cánula nasal de alto flujo (CNAF) en domicilio, evaluando la seguridad, las indicaciones, los parámetros de utilización, la duración del tratamiento, los resultados clínicos y la satisfacción de los padres. Se acompaña de una revisión de la literatura del tema.

A comment is made on a study conducted in Israel analyzing 75 pediatric patients who used high-flow nasal cannula at home, evaluating safety, indications, utilization parameters, treatment duration, clinical outcomes, and parental satisfaction. It is accompanied by a literature review on the topic.

Impacto de la cánula nasal de alto flujo y la ventilación no invasiva en la fisiología deglutoria: revisión de la literatura / Impact of high-flow nasal cannula and non-invasive ventilation on swallowing physiology: a literature review

El proceso deglutorio requiere de una adecuada coordinación entre respiración y deglución. En el contexto clínico, el uso de dispositivos ventilatorios no invasivos, como la cánula nasal de alto flujo (CNAF) o la ventilación no invasiva (VNI), ha cobrado gran relevancia durante los últimos años. Sin embargo, existe escasa información respecto a la interferencia que estos dispositivos podrían ocasionar en la fisiología deglutoria. En este contexto, y con el objetivo de describir el impacto de la CNAF y la VNI en la fisiología deglutoria, se realizó una revisión de la literatura en PubMed, Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Lilacs y Scielo. Se incorporaron estudios que incluyeran población ≥18 años, con uso de CNAF o VNI. Se excluyeron estudios en población con antecedentes de disfagia, necesidad de intubación, presencia de enfermedad neurológica, neuromuscular o respiratoria, entre otros. Los resultados de los estudios muestran que la CNAF podría disminuir el número de degluciones (en flujos ≥ 20 L/min; p<0,05),disminuir el tiempo medio de activación de la respuesta deglutoria proporcional al flujo empleado (p<0,05), incrementar el riesgo aspirativo en flujos altos (>40 L/min, p<0,05) e incrementar en promedio la duración del cierre del vestíbulo laríngeo (p<0,001). La VNI modo BiPAP, por su parte, podría aumentar el riesgo aspirativo debido al incremento en la tasa de inspiración post deglución (SW-I, p<0,01). Si bien la evidencia disponible es limitada, los resultados aportan información relevante a considerar en el abordaje de usuarios que utilicen estos dispositivos ventilatorios. Futuras investigaciones deberían ser desarrolladas para fortalecer la evidencia presentada.

Deglutition requires adequatecoordination between breathing and swallowing. In the clinical context, the use of non-invasive ventilatory devices such as high-flow nasal cannulas(HFNC) or non-invasive ventilation (NIV) has become highlyrelevantin recent years. However, there is little information regarding howthese devices could interferewith the physiologyof deglutition. This study aimedto describe the impact of HFNC and NIV on swallowing physiology. To this end, aliterature review was carried out usingPubMed, Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Lilacs,and Scielo. Studies performed onpopulations≥18 years old where HFNC or NIV were used were included. Studies where thepopulation hada history of dysphagia, need for intubation, and presentedneurological, neuromuscular,or respiratory diseases, among others, were excluded. The results show that HFNC could decrease the swallowing rate(with flows≥ 20 L/min; p<.05), decrease the mean activation time of the swallowing reflex in proportion to the flow (p<.05), increase the risk of aspiration when usinghigherflows (>40 L/min, p<0.05),and increase the average duration of the laryngeal vestibuleclosure(p<.001).NIV, particularly BiPAP, could increase the risk of aspiration due to the higherrate of post-swallowing inspiration (SW-I, p<.01). Although the evidence available on this matter is limited, theseresults offerrelevant information that should beconsideredwhen working with patients who use these ventilatory devices. Furtherresearch should be carriedoutto strengthen the evidence that is provided in this study.

Terapia de alto flujo ¿Una alternativa en rehabilitación? / High flow therapy: An option to rehabilitation?

La pandemia por el virus SARS-COV2 que causó la enfermedad COVID-19 ha traído grandes desafíos al sistema de salud tanto a nivel nacional como mundial. En Chile, gracias al esfuerzo de organismos gubernamentales e instituciones privadas, los centros de salud se han equipado con distintos dispositivos de terapia ventilatoria (ventilación mecánica invasiva y no invasiva, y terapia de alto flujo de oxígeno mediante cánula nasal (TAF) con la finalidad de abarcar mayor atención de pacientes tras un periodo de crisis sanitaria que colapsó las redes de atención secundaria y terciaria de salud. En concordancia a esto, es interesante evaluar qué utilidad puede darse a estos equipos posterior a la pandemia, considerando que en varios centros de salud se duplicó o triplicó la disponibilidad de recursos técnicos. En este contexto, la TAF entrega efectos fisiológicos favorables y útiles en escenarios clínicos que implican aumento de las demandas ventilatorias, no sólo en condiciones de insuficiencia respiratoria hipoxémica aguda, sino en condiciones en donde el ejercicio aeróbico es un pilar fundamental, como es el caso de los diferentes programas de rehabilitación (cardiovascular, respiratorio, metabólico, etc.) incluidos como Garantías Explícitas de Salud (GES). Así, la incorporación de TAF en la rehabilitación pulmonar sería una opción adecuada en pacientes con disfunciones respiratorias crónicas, ampliando la cobertura sanitaria que estos programas tienen hoy en día.

The SARS-COV2 pandemic that caused the COVID-19 disease has brought significant challenges to the health system nationally and globally. In Chile, thanks to the efforts of government agencies and private institutions, health centres have been equipped with di-fferent ventilatory therapy devices (invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation, and high-flow oxygen therapy by nasal cannula (HFOT)), in order to cover more patient care after a period of a health crisis that collapsed secondary and tertiary health care networks. Accordingly, it is interesting to evaluate concerning what use can be given to these teams after the pandemic, even more considering that the availability of technical resources doubled or tripled in several health centres. In this context, HFOT provides favourable and useful physiological effects in clinical scenarios that involve increased ventilatory demands, not only in conditions of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure but also in conditions where aerobic exercise is a fundamental pillar, as is the case of the different rehabilitation programs (cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, etc.) included as Health Guarantees (Garantías Explicitas en Salud, GES). Thus, incorporating HFOT in pulmonary rehabilitation would be an appropriate option in patients with chronic respiratory dysfunctions, expanding the health coverage that these programs have today.