Abstract:

Noninvasive high-frequency oscillatory ventilation(NHFOV) is based on the application of a continuous flow, generating a constant distending positive pressure with superimposed oscillations, delivered all over the spontaneous breathing cycle. NHFOV matches together the advantages of high-frequency ventilation (no need for synchronisation, high efficacy in removing CO₂) and nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP, non-invasive interface, increase in functional residual capacity allowing oxygenation to improve). As it represents another “brick in the wall” of the non-invasive respiratory support, it has been increasing applied in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). At present, there is no consensus guidelines on the application of NHFOV, the application of NHFOV is largely based on the local practices and comfort. This article summarizes the physiology of NHFOV, indications, ventilator device, interfaces, parameter settings, and clinical evidence based on a PubMed literature search.

Key words: non-invasive high-frequency oscillatory ventilation, non-invasive respiratory support, clinical evidence, preterm infant