[Assisted ventilation at home].

Abstract

In patients with chronic respiratory failure, in particular in those with accompanying wall-dependent restrictive syndrome (i.e. kyphoscoliosis, certain myopathies...) shortness of breath and sequelae of cor pulmonale usually limit quality of life distinctly. In particular repeated hospitalizations necessitated by remittent occurrence of severe respiratory decompensation, usually in the course of infections, reduce life quality and life expectancy. Thus, selected patients may benefit remarkably from a device for assisted ventilation at home as a technical measure with good results. The number of hospitalizations is markedly reduced, shortness of breath can even disappear completely, so that patients can regain social activity. The usually non-invasive technique (ventilation with nose-mask) is applied at night, so that disturbance is low for the patient and his surroundings. It is however necessary, that his financial burden and technical maintenance and servicing of materials is granted by an organisation, who is also able to provide safety for the patient and his family on a long term.