Nasal high–flow oxygen therapy in patients with hypoxic respiratory failure: effect on functional and subjective respiratory parameters compared to conventional oxygen therapy and non-invasive ventilation (NIV)

摘要

Background Aim of the study was to compare the short-term effects of oxygen therapy via a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) on functional and subjective respiratory parameters in patients with acute hypoxic respiratory failure in comparison to non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and standard treatment via a Venturi mask. Methods Fourteen patients with acute hypoxic respiratory failure were treated with HFNC (FiO₂ 0.6, gas flow 55 l/min), NIV (FiO₂ 0.6, PEEP 5 cm H₂O Hg, tidal volume 6–8 ml/kg ideal body weight,) and Venturi mask (FiO₂ 0.6, oxygen flow 15 l/min,) in a randomized order for 30 min each. Data collection included objective respiratory and circulatory parameters as well as a subjective rating of dyspnea and discomfort by the patients on a 10-point scale. In a final interview, all three methods were comparatively evaluated by each patient using a scale from 1 (=very good) to 6 (=failed) and the patients were asked to choose one method for further treatment. Results PaO₂ was highest under NIV (129 ± 38 mmHg) compared to HFNC (101 ± 34 mmHg, p Conclusions In hypoxic respiratory failure HFNC offers a good balance between oxygenation and comfort compared to NIV and Venturi mask and seems to be well tolerated by patients. Trial registration German clinical trials register: DRKS00005132 .